There are a few unwritten rules here. Because Steemit is decentralized at its core and there is no central authority making rules for conduct, it's up to the community to police itself, and over the last year or so some basic rules have come up. They're mostly common sense, but some aren't as obvious.
- Reputation matters - Generally speaking, courtesy is king here. Sometimes you can't avoid a crappy conversation, but being an asshole isn't the best or preferable method.
- Don't upvote your own comments and posts - This one is more of a subjective thing and isn't universally accepted, but, as you've noticed, some people take it seriously. It's a toss-up. I don't see the problem with it; it's your vote. Same with randowhale and whaleshares. It has a lot to do with the idea that, as curators, we're supposed to be finding other people's quality content to push, not our own.
Thanks for your reply!
Striving for courteous is always better, I have definitely noticed that on this platform. The same goes for life! I actually value a good debate or disagreement that can be carried on without being rude or hateful about it. We grow so much when we accept that other people have different opinions and that defending our own can be done kindly, while agreeing to disagree.
The gray area I have encountered the last few weeks is upvoting or promoting yourself. Initially it seemed that it was to each their own, but now I am wondering if there are more people frustrated by seeing others promoting themselves. Which is really debatable, because, on one hand I can see how it seems like it can take away from adding to the community by using votes for yourself, but on the other hand, giving yourself the extra shove with your own investments could be smart. Hmmm.
It really is more of a personal preference. Some take issue with it. Some, like me, don't. :D
I appreciate your input. 😊
When you first start posting on steemit, your own post upvote might be the only upvote you get. Once you have a good following and are getting a fair amount of upvotes, then maybe you might take another look at upvoting yourself, but it really is just a matter of opinion.
I agree with you, it is a matter of opinion.
I don't see any problem with upvoting your own posts. After all, that is the default setting when posting. Upvoting your own comments, is really more a matter of opinion. Some people don't like it, other people do it. I think it's an individual choice.