Lot of things that stop people.

1. Actifit people get votes like 40 USD worth of upvotes meanwhile newbies can't even get 10 cent.
2. Freewriters, nomad, farmers, DIY content get not even 1 USD worth vote but actifit gets high votes.
3. I think another is bullying from the downvoters too. e.g. I am not supporting Ukraine does that mean I am not supposed to be on hive? this is an example some people can pick any side in war or international debates and they can get the downvotes etc.
4. A lot of efforts goes on tribes but they don't get the returns they want.

In short, there are barriers some can eventually go away. We have to just remove the obstacles for others so that they can stay here. I am sure with time this will clear up.