I definetly agree that new bloggers should:
Pick topics that you are passionate about, and take an interest in.
and not to
Fixate on rewards, the expectation will detract you from producing quality content.
It is easy to be engulfed in the money but that shouldn't be the main goal. If you sit and watch the votes then you are 1. wasting your time and 2. never going to be satisfied.
You are spot on, I hope to see more of you soon :)