Should I act like i want advice from my MIL, because it makes her feel good, or just do my thing and not worry?

I personally wouldn't ask her for help/advice. I can't cater to everyone else, I have kids and am busy. I personally was kinda in the same boat. EVERYONE wanted to give me advice. I just wanted to be left alone and do it all myself. If I needed help I asked for it. I just told them how it was from the start so there's no confusion. Of coarse I didn't say it all like that. lol If she asks just nicely say you want to figure it out yourself and develop your own parenting techniques, but if you do need help it's nice to know she's there for you.