LOL! This is enlightening. I couldn't stop smiling all through because you are brutally honest and I did connect with your blog.

Unlike you who has been here 4 years 😳, I ask myself, when will I get there? I'm just into my third month and trying to find my way around. I'm struggling to make my own mark on Hive. Deciding which community(ies) I best fit into.

We have various reasons why we blog. I blog not only to say something meaningful to my readers but also get satisfaction from their validation. Yes, votes are nice but meaningful comments are satisfying!

You said -

Maybe if I just shared my absolute best posts, perhaps, I'd reach the level of popularity that users....

How do you know what your 'absolute best' post is? Votes from big fish? Comments? I'll say just keep doing what you love to do.

I have decided to write and/or blog the way I love to (which is the beauty of Hive - freedom of expression) and make deep connections with my readers. Hopefully the votes will come in alongside. ☺️🍀