What are some good Steemit strategies and best practices from the successful and seasoned Steemians?

Just want to learn from the pro's that are using Steemit platform and Steem cryptocurrency to maximal effect. The real sharp shooters of the bunch that is just killing it, NINJA Style!

Here are some questions I have right now.

What is the best way to invest in Steem for the future?
If there was one strategy to make a $500 investment in the Steem platform for immediate gains, what would it be?
What is the best way to create content that is successful on Steemit?
What is the best way to promote it?
How does one curate effectively?

Other Steemians, feel free ask your burning questions in the comments and feel free to upvote, so we educate the community and help it grow. We need to get others to see and experience the benefits of contributing to this community and making it grow.