In my opinion from least to most impactful reasons:

1. Early adopter of this platform (Isn't needed to succeed but helps)
2. Gives back to the community (regardless of this you would still be successful)
3. From what I've seen is a generally genuine and nice guy.
4. Invests valuable time into his articles.
4. Provides ORIGINAL, INTERESTING, and INTERACTIVE content adding value to this blockchain.

This is a message to everyone: if you want to succeed on Steemit, you have to have something that adds value to the block chain.

Since I have made original posts, take my time on them, and make sure they provide something to the community in some way or another... I have been overwhelmed with the response, and getting rewarded for hard work makes the payout feel so much more earned.

Anyways Steem on @papa-pepper, and cheers to your milestone.