I think we are entering a tricky period right now with where the price of Steem sits and also with what is unfolding amongst authors/followers alike.
This platform is fantastic, conceptually it is a winner in my eyes. I do think we are witnessing some core problems which stem from the ability to see what $ amount a post is rewarded.
What I am questioning here is the point of comparison. Comparing oneself to another based upon monetary reward is a dangerous ideal. It is actually one that should not be cultivated in this world nor do I believe it should be cultivated on Steemit.
This dollar amount in my opinion should be hidden.
It should not be there for everyone to see. What should be there is some other kind of meter that indicates the success of a post.
I've been reading a number of posts by 
What I am afraid of is if the majority is going end up becoming disheartened by lack of reward in contributing to this platform. Now I hear some people saying, that is just people crying poor. But the reality is, if the majority is disenfranchised by the platform, the platform will suffer.
The majority is what matters here.
There also should be other ways to contribute value to be rewarded with Steem. Not everyone is a great writer, who can produce excellent piece after excellent piece, not everyone has an existing audience they can migrate across. But everyone can contribute something and therefore ways to earn Steem by alternative means should be considered.
Finally, the price of Steem is at a position where it seems to have settled somewhat. If there is not growth within the price/the platform and the majority isn't pleased.
I fear the money that the speculators have, will flow out and into other projects. This also needs to be considered because the common steemer is not powering up and investing in the platform.