You hit those important points that a Steemian will need to gain success in this platform. If you have been quite sometime in Steemit, you will be aware that bots are allowed so, it can imply that it is not that strict on here. But it is a mortal sin here to "plagiarized" and reputation is valuable. Having that in mind, you should really know the importance of putting references on your posts if it is not solely your idea, whether it is ideas or images.

So true that through reading high quality post, you can earn how to provide your readers a high quality post as well. It is a kind of being "envy" which is healthy cause you would want to be that kind of writer as well and therefore will strive to attain it. As @surpassinggoogle mentioned in his post, "Create Something That Nations Of The World Seek To Copy/Paste".

Another point that I think could help a Steemian attain success is by "Reciprocating" to others who upvoted, resteemed and/or commented your posts. It will be better if there is a give and take relationship and not just "take and take" specially for those who are really helping you reach your goals in Steemit. More especially if you are already on "top" and your supporters were already looking up to you. Might not be in the form of "upvote for upvote or resteem for resteem" but through sharing your knowledge or providing useful tips/ideas on the comments to help them grow.

Also by sharing your talents could make you successful in Steemit. Just by simply browsing the contests posts, you will clearly know how artists and talented writers were valued on this platform. Just be original and you will later be recognized with all your honesty and hard work. Offering free services as well with your talent like free footers from @bearone could give you the sense of having something achieved already in this platform. Also by sharing what you have learned already in Steemit to your fellow Steemians to attain success can help you get "real" followers/supporters. :)