Yes I think we missed the "growing pains" to a degree. We are now on a different path.
Today the complaints are about the downvoting system as opposed to whether STEEM will make it or not. We know there is a viable blockchain along with a reward system that is shown to work.
We need some progress with apps which I believe will happen over time. Add that to the fact more content is being created on here daily. Once communities, SMTs, and auto sign ups hit, this place will be unstoppable in my opinion.
My $100 STEEM by year end might be too low if all that happens and takes off.