Yes, it's easy to forget how "expensive" 80 STEEM was in Jan 2018 (more than $640). Those days, earning 5 SP ($40) was something.
I think of this period as a redistribution. Getting STEEM into more hands that care for the platform, so when the market turns again, we get to retain most of the value gained and resist downward pressures. Just my view (not financial advice)... :)
Pfew - 640$ indeed! Those were different times. Buying was definitely not an option which was why I thought I would never be able to grow my account to a decent level :-)
We're in redistribution times, I agree. I've seen many Steem Friends power up lately - and I'm excited to have them be the 'bigger holders' when the markets turn :-)