Steemit... am I doing something wrong? (Followers going up, everything else practically the same)

Yeah that's pretty much it.

I know that there many factors involved, but I feel a little concerned. I write a lot, I feel I am helping and adding value, I see my followers go up, but the upvotes are pretty much the same and payout also just as low as when I low number of followers.

And when I see others with less or the same number of followers as I do, they seem to be doing way better.

I am asking sincerely because I am baffled. Any explanation would be lovely and appreciated.

Thanks!