It's a good checklist of things for a decent steemit experience. Networking, commenting and being part of communities is really critical for success. Self voting I guess is a personal issue, I try not to, but I have no problem with people who vote on their own posts. Voting on your own comments I'm not so keen on though...
Diversifying your Steem income is also a good tip. Steemcleaners is great for an extra little bit on the side when you can't think of something to write, and passive income from delegation is a nice steady drip. If course, supporting communities with Delegations is a more long term investment into the general health of the system.
My five tips (for what they are worth)
- Try to get in the habit of posting once a day.
- Try different types of posting if you are short on ideas (like ulog).
- Join communities and support others, it does come back to you!
- Stay clear of flag wars... Small accounts get hammered, and it just isn't worth it.
- If you have a bit of fiat to invest, then do it. Like you said, it is a snowball effect!