Did you read the new Steemit Whitepaper released today?  It's updated, finally.

It clearly states how those who have put the most into Steem have the most influence on posts and minnow growth.  With that being said, with so many people joining every day, it's harder to get on an influences radar.  But, if you look at people like @papa-pepper - he is doing quite well.  But if you look at his posts from just a few months ago, he was making only a few dollars a post.  And I noticed this about many of the people doing well here.  

Everyone has to put in the time.  I know it's frustrating.  Believe me.  But I know if we keep going we will do well!

And thank you hun, you are so sweet <3  I needed that