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Thank you @deirdyweirdy

Can't really blame people for leaving. Mixing social media+$ is an interesting experiment we are seeing unfold and can now clearly see the negatives. But there are lots of positives and some good communities have sprouted such as the 50 word stories :)

I think some take it too seriously. I'm having great fun here. Yes, there are a few bad eggs but, as you say, there are a lot of positives and a lot of great people.

Not taking it too seriously is probably the most important thing.
I think it's when people have put in a lot of time and effort into a story or post and it goes unrecognized they get discouraged. Steemit is more designed for quick turnover content, the 7 day payout window a clear indication.