We might begin a project with pure sincerity (ikhlas), but that's not a guarantee that our efforts will remain sincere forever. We have to be vigilant in our guarding our intentions and question our sincerity if we begin to feel desperate for validation and appreciation from others.

If you began something with a sincere desire to serve Allah, but now you find yourself bitter or resentful because you don't feel successful, appreciated, or acknowledged, take a step back and reflect upon ayah three of surah Al-Iklaas: 'He has never had offspring, nor was He born.'

The One you serve through this effort has never had offspring. He has never been born. He is not your boss, your followers, your coworkers, your community members, your fellow volunteers, your family, your friends. Do not let your heart be disturbed by their lack of appreciation. What matters is that we serve Al-Ahad - The One - with true ikhlaas, true sincerity. He will never let any of the efforts done sincerely for His sake go to waste. Alhamdullilah.

Oh Allah, make us of the Mukhliseen.
Ameen, Ya Rabbil alameen. 

(As always, advice to myself first and foremost. I've referenced additional verses we can reflect upon. Feel free to share more in the comments. JAK)

Jazaak Allah Khair, Sister. Sincerity is the heart of it all, it appears to me, and not an easy thing to assess for oneself, it seems. We need to keep trying to purify and never stop trying, I think. Allah Most High knows best.