hahaha - that is one way to doing it - to double purpose everything.

I hear you about time going faster and us getting slower. Dang. While I think that it is a noble goal to try to check in with everyone all the time, if it is causing you stress - then it isn't a sustainable goal.
I would say - just be free to do what you can and want. Personally, I would interact with those who leave comments for me first. The others, you check in when you can. If that is once a month or even less, that is okay. Your followers know where to find you. It is not all up to you.
There are some people on Steemit I hold in high respect and love - and I hardly ever get to their posts because by the time I am done with the freewriters - I have no voting power, mental power and time left. But they understand - they are on Steemit and are dealing with the same dilemma. I say, do what feels good and do it with a happy heart. No expectations!