I second everything you share in this post, @walkingkeys.

I joined a month ago, and have seen the value of Steem drop significantly since then. But I'm in it for the long term, because I love the whole idea behind Steemit.

What I have noticed is that a lot of posts that are doing really well now, are written by Steemians that have been building their following over time, often for a year. And just like you described: they kept working at it when the rewards were low.

Because they believed in Steemit and its community, and enjoyed what they were doing.

The same goes for me. My first posts did nothing. I just published my 'IntroduceYourself' post yesterday, and that one is trending atm. But I'm very much aware that that might be a one-off, and most of my posts will not do much again for months.

I'm okay with that.

I'm in it for the long term. Just keep building, connecting with other Steemians regardless of what the price of Steem is. It will go back up again. And those that have dedicated themselves to Steemit will reap the rewards of their labour, whenever that is.