I certainly do believe in steering my own ship. As far as destiny set by a higher power, I don't believe that idea holds much water, as we have infinite free will to make our own decisions. On the other hand, destiny as it pertains to things likely to occur in the future, based on decisions made today makes more sense to my brain. Do I really know though? Hell no, but I do my best to head in the direction I want to go, although I do get distracted by....'oh look, a puppy'
People just want the easy option even if that option means they do very little or nothing to contribute to their future outcomes; not all people, but a lot of them. Heading in the right direction means doing something and I get the impression you do, no matter how many puppies come along.