What’s one thing you would do differently if nobody could judge you?

As a man, why do men around me leap to describe me to people I’ve yet to meet or introduce myself to, especially women when they don't know me at all?
Does having a natural heart for service make you feel guilty when you finally have to say no to someone?
How does having a supportive spouse who challenges and respects you impact a man's personal growth and confidence?
Has there ever been a case where ignoring an advisor's advice actually turned out well for a Ph.D. student? What made it successful?