I haven't been using Steemit too long personally, but have known of the platform and coin for much longer. I believe it should have been more Bitcoin based at first, but I think more and more that having it as a separate coin makes more sense.

I think it is too early in the life of the coin for anyone to try and make Steemit a full time or even part time job to allow fluctuations in price to occur, but instead focus on making the best content and see the site and third parties upgrade looks and use. I wish you luck leaving or staying with the site.