I am part of the eSteem community for some time and I can say that I've seen goods and bads as I would have expected of. While the development is not moving as fast as I would expect, it is going steady in the right direction. One way to keep the community glued are the eSteem Points which are just rewards for using the eSteem apps and being active. I think two weeks ago the rewards were a little bit better, but probably due to some abuse or intensive use from some part of the users those were lowered. But at least these are not lower enough and you can still use the apps and feel a sense of positive rewards. And the other features make up for it.
One thing I am lovely surprised from time to time is when I get a usage bonus. The bonus is of 10 points and is quite welcomed in a day. Based on the users from the apps you have your chance, sometime you win it, otherwise you don't, but the surprise when you receive it is quite great and refreshing and motivating. This is one incentive that I appreciate and feel rewarded in the dry days.