It looks like Steemit probably needs more simple, everyday content to become fully mainstream. I think it's got plenty of quality content right now, more than I can read in any case, but mainstream users probably don't want to read about crypto all day long.
Most helpful thing for the growth of any coin is of course demand. How to actually create demand is a more complex question - apparently, the prevailing solution is to inflate ANY demand you might actually have and multiply it with hype, PR and marketing. In the long run things will probably change though.
This is what I was thinking. It appears that steemit is focused more on Crypto and the majority of the posters here are really into it which can be intimidating for new comers.
I have posted some other basic content, some about Travel and some about electronics. Both have received far fewer upvotes and engagement than my Gridcoin content. I feel like a fundamental shift will have to happen in order for Steemit to become a viable platform in the future and maintain growth outside the crypto space.
Yes, it's very difficult to get any attention while posting about non-crypto things or even outside your usual crypto-community. However, when you build up your reputation (and wallet), you can generally get upvotes on broader scope of subjects. That can take time though.
Fundamental shift is happening, thousands and thousands of people are getting into crypto every day and investing into their favorite altcoin. Where to blog about it and find community who will support you, even financially (through upvotes)? Steemit is becoming an obvious answer to that.