Hi @dobartim. This post is one of the best post to success on steemit that I've ever come across, since I joined in January.
You've really made awesome points... One of my mentors, @gee1 said something which I'd never forget.
A great leader is a great follower.
What she meant was that if you intend to be a great leader, especially here on Steemit, you must have followed some people greater than you.
Relating these words to your first point, I conclude that following the right people is also one of the surest ways to succeed fast on steemit.
That's why I'm also giving you a follow now. I've also joined your discord channel.
By the way, I'm from Nigeria.