community is key but lots of people, at least from my side of the world, including me, came in because of the earnings. It is therefore truly important to get involved in the community, interaction, building relationships aspects of it all but not all are social or good at making friends.
I for one am a loner and I have tried to make friends, chat, but I always find it easy to hide in my shell and mind my business. I guess I have to be bold as you say, connect more, if I do want to keep earning by the time steem is mainstream. Lotta work but I have to do it. Thanks @tarazkp
Perhaps it is not just about the friend but finding ways to engage the audience with who you are as a person. Not all will choose to stay but those who do will be there forever. Much like the process in love - some chase numbers, others live and be loved.
Live and be loved, love all you live.