#1 - If you want to be successful in this community you have to work toward that end. The harder you work the further you'll go. You may never be the best but that doesn't mean you should stop trying to be.
#2 - Don't ask for upvotes. Don't ask for 'follow me, follow you'. Don't try to do things the easy way. There is only one sure fire way to get what you want out of Steemit and life in general. Want to know what it is? See #1.
#3 - Help others when you can and we all move forward together. Encourage and inspire others to do and be their best. If we all work together then the community thrives. When you promote others you promote yourself.
#4 - Don't try to copy other posts simply because they are successful. You are your own person and you have your own style. Those are the tools you will use to build in the community. There are so many interests on Steemit that you can find a home for the things you want to share. Share yourself with the community and you will find an audience for your posts. Just remember #1.
#5 - Have patience. It takes time and effort to build a following. It doesn't happen overnight. Don't give up just because the road is long, if you do you'll never know how far you can go.


These are five wonderful pieces of advice. I think it's awesome that you did this post in such a way as to encourage interaction. Thanks!