There's no reason that in learning the "right" way (whatever that is) that you have to let go of what you've already learned.

Often, "classic" techniques are considered to be such for a reason: they have a history of being effective. So it's probably a good idea to learn those conventional techniques.

But there's no reason to discard what you already know. Simply ADD those techniques to what you already know how to do!

What kind of music are you playing?  If you are playing the traditional music that these instruments are used on, it would be to your advantage to learn these techniques.  However, even if you aren't necessarily interested in that type of music, it still would be to your advantage to learn new things - it wouldn't hurt.

Proper technique is very important in hand drumming due to the fact that you also want to take care of your hands.  No sense beating them up when there is  perhaps a better method.

Years ago, I started out with a pair of congas, and much like you, I thought I was doing pretty good trying to imitate the sounds and rhythms I was hearing, but doing it in my own "style".  When I finally started learning these traditional techniques, it opened up a whole new world on these instruments.  One of the most important things was learning to feel these rhythms, even though I was doing terribly (I really wanted to give up).  As it is, I'm now able to play in a band that plays latin folk music - I'm the only gringo, but they enjoy my playing.  

I really wish I would have started much, much sooner.