Read my response again. Nowhere did I say you're doing something wrong. You asked why I muted you so I explained, don't take it personally. Those points are yours to do with as you wish, you either earned them or purchased them, it's not my business to tell you how to redeem them.
Several months ago I asked Ecency development to include a feature that allows users to 'hide' sponsored content. The idea's being tossed around now. Something along the lines where User A spends points to hide content User B deemed worthy to run on repeat consequently pushing quality content further and further from consumer view.
I think a maximum 1-day sponsorship is appropriate, anything more than that is misuse in my opinion. And anyone who promotes their own or anyone else's content beyond the seven day pay period needs more help than I can offer.
I put this together last year regarding promote and boost functions—much more thorough explanation. You should check it out.
If all promoted content that played on repeat in user Ecency feeds whether they appreciate it or not was of this caliber, 10's of thousands of users would flock to the blockchain on a weekly basis similar to the other social media platforms because with every flick of a scroll finger, the content is high quality. And that's what we all want—to protect our investment. Unfortunately my feed is loaded with users who promote garbage.
How do I make my content MORE visible to people if not by promoting?
There's multiple ways. First and foremost, be patient and consistent. Enter contests; curators and consumers specifically look for contest entries for exciting material. Engage is another. When you enter a contest, engage with other entries, this will build relationships and further develop contacts. Visit trending, look at those authors leading the platform in views and rewards right now and notice none are promoted.
This response is ridiculously lengthy.
Because I believe that more visibility is necessary to grow my account, which is something we're all after. Or do I mistake here as well?
No. Again, I didn't say you're doing something wrong but if you're under the impression screaming at a room full of strangers with a megaphone is attractive, you may want to reconsider your approach.