That punch line! :D
To be honest, I think you have a greater chance at succeeding if you just be yourself. I'm trying to find my footing as well and it's not easy. So much to consider, like the politics/ethics of the platform, the people you received upvotes from that are likely to not approve your next post, really wanting to finally write that original piece that's totally me, but knowing no one's ever gonna notice, - and having to opt for a mediocre quicky much too often, etc. etc.
One thing that has encouraged me so far is remembering that in the end, it's all about people, the real connections we make here. That can't be properly monetized. It shouldn't be. I've seen some rather poor posts from some big huge whales making lots of money and I'll be honest with you: I don't even want that.
Sometimes I make balloons for kids, as a part time job. That is the most rewarding job in the world, or so I feel. And whatever heart or creativity I have, I try to put it in every figure I make, because I see it's going to make someone glad. If you know that someone will appreciate you, you'll be happy doing it. Mask or no mask, IT'S ALL about the PEOPLE.
:)
I get you @cali-girl. (thank you for the recent upvotes, btw)
Ever need an upvote or resteem? Look me up @cali-girl.
The connections with people are what I struggle with the most, online and offline. That's what I'm trying so hard to work on. I'm a terrible introvert who prefers animals to people, and that makes me feel empty sometimes. I know, however, I have to reach out to people, not only to do better on Steemit, but also to do "better" in my daily life and push past the shadows that have been following me for years.
The upvotes you see are my bot voting for you. :) I try to get around to reading your posts, but just in case I don't, you at least have my upvote. I know you are trying hard here too and you are the type of person we need here (or at least I think so anyway.)
I think some people would notice if you write an original piece that exposes the real you to the world. I know I would notice. My votes aren't worth much monetarily, but like you said, you can't and shouldn't monetize those connections. And I might add: one day, your votes and my votes will be worth a lot of money if we keep posting and do it in a way people can easily connect with.
With that said, I don't think one piece alone suddenly causes whales to come running (swimming) your way, but with a consistent flow of articles that show who you really are, I say they will all find you eventually.
I like the fact that you make balloons for kids and hope you will post more about it.
I didnt think anyone would be reading this one that I wrote, but I was wrong. Most of the votes I got are from minnows, but hey, people are seeing it.
Thanks for your reply! I totally get you, being an introvert myself. I agree with everything you said, too. btw, my bot was also instructed to vote for you a while ago :) I've posted some balloon figures previously, here and there. Here's one of yours truly in working in a park on Sweden's National Day:
https://steemit.com/balloon/@abcdoctor/june-6-is-fast-approaching
:) Hope you have a pleasant evening!
You're the one making the heart balloon?
Affirmative :)
That video makes me skeptical that you're an introvert.
If it was up to me, I'd stay home and never go out. Like I said, I love the fact that people appreciate what I do there.
It's 1:30am here, but I will respond to you after I get some sleep. :)
By all means, have a good night rest :) Don't let bed bugs bite!