What if those people consider what they're being told by the authorities, understand that it makes sense, and choose to take that action because it's important for the public good?

Why are people who prioritized public health during a temporary pandemic "sheep", but the President's supporters who demonstrate exceptionally cult-like behavior, "free thinking individuals"?

You can't have it both ways.

Instead of listening to some randos on the internet who "did my own research"?

Honestly, the most depressing thing that COVID made clear is how many members of a supposedly civilized society didn't give a shit about others, or the society itself: only themselves. How many were outraged at the very thought of the most minor inconvenience, no matter how much it might help others.