During my first year, the best thing that works for me till now is my increase and constant engagement. I dont really earn so much in my post, I could not even get 2$ in it. But that doesn't make me sad or make me quit from steeming. We need to widen our circle of friends, meet new ones, get out of our comfort zone and be in the field talking to other people, even strangers. You will never know if some of them reciprocate the same to you.
In engagement I get to meet new people and earn some friends in return. From them I also was able to learn new things that I can apply to my own.
PS.
I sincerely apologize for the long comment..