Congratulations! I'm working my way up to the milestone slowly; just another couple of hundred to go!
I think point 1. "Work your ass off" is not to be underestimated. It should probably be on the welcome page somewhere! Along with "Patience. This is probably going to take a little time."
It takes time to produce work of quality. It naturally takes time to develop the relationships which underlie the site. There are very few quick wins. But it does come together if you're prepared to put in the effort.
Thanks @miniature-tiger! You produce some really great stuff and I feel your contributions don't get the recognition they deserve - yet.