Like you, I probably post at the wrong time of the day but being located in the far East, I have not much choice. If I make 2.00 on a post (which is actually about $8usd) I'm okay with that. Commenting is far more lucrative than hitting a lick on one post, when you consider time invested. I personally see nothing wrong with upvoting yourself and I do it regularly, but I do share the love. You can always set up a facebook page promoting your blog. Over time, you will whittle down your "follow" list so you can devote the time needed to those you enjoy the most. Oh, and checkout SteemThat.com if you would like a better UI experience and more exposure, but remember, it also is still in beta. Hang in there, you will look back in a year and say WOW!