Everything we do on here builds upon itself.

When one is new, there is no followers and, most likely, no SP. As time goes by, one acquires followers which tends to mean more upvotes. Obviously, when new, the followers one gets to start are not the highest grade ones. Again, as time goes by and the commitment to the platform is shown, higher SP accounts will start to follow.

Also VP is based upon SP. Again, we see the compounding effect in not only the inflation rate paid on SP but also the value of the vote passed around (either to oneself or others). As one acquired more SP, the stake on the platform grows, improving one's standing.

Also, delegation can be done to further a return. For example, one can delegate to an app that is creating a token. This will net payouts, commonly, in both STEEM and the apps token. At some point, we are going to see the ability to swap those tokens for STEEM, if desired.

By powering up and constantly recirculating the SP through the system, whether it is with votes or delegation, one's stake keeps growing. Everything is building upon itself over time.