I had a really similar experience with the series once I went online, so I totally understand where you're coming from. I feel the pressure more than ever with New Horizons, but I've also since made some friends who want to play too, so hopefully the interactivity will make it more fun again and less stressful - and make it easier to find all the cool things I want for my island to make it perfectly me~
Also, for your poll, my main island will be Northern Hemisphere, but I can't say that it isn't tempting to have one of each, once I save up to get a Switch Lite.