I have been diligently following your advice. I switched over from the 50%-50% payout for articles to 100% Steem power (I didn't see you say this but figured I'd give it a try). I'm hoping this will help as well.

It has been hard to put so much effort into a post and only get a few cents, but those are the kicks to the shin we all get. Paying our dues if you will. I still keep on going. I awoke today and a whale had stopped by and blessed me with an upvote. I gained $100 just like that! It feels like I won the lottery.

What lesson did I learn? You can't keep getting kicked forever without a break or two, haha. Thanks @cryptoctopus for your guidance and encouragement. I'm here for the long haul.