@The_It00 Well, at least you aren't afraid to self-promote. I think you got staff-picked twice, though? If so, your numbers might not be apt for general comparison.
To bring some perspective to everyone here(for data's sake), I was Staff Picked once, during which time I got pretty much 1500-2000 views. Without them, my sub count would be 50 subs less and my total view count would be around 1200-1500. Doing some calculations, I think I would be getting around the same kind of numbers as everyone else. That said, people have gotten to high subs even without Staff Picking and one shouldn't forget that "luck is an aspect of skill." Someone once said that when I just couldn't strike lucky. So hone your skills, and eventually, someone will have to take notice. It's better to get noticed because of your skill than because of "luck." Those who were chosen by luck tend to fade out, while the determined and steadfast purse their goal and become better writers and, surprisingly, published authors.
This was just a general rant. There are many skilled writers among us who would've deserved to be Staff Picked much more than I did. That said, if you're determined, just get better at what you love. Eventually, you'll find a way.
sighs Now, though, I'm gonna rest. My rest day is coming up.