I go through all the new, hot and trending posts, and find stuff that interests me, and then comment and upvote if I like the content.

I found out at only 674 SP, curation doesn't earn a lot. Making a meaningful comment ( and not fucking begging for a follow) is going to get you noticed. Maybe someone decides to follow you, because they think you are interesting/intelligent, and then you post a decent blog with some good content. That new follow might re-steam if it's good, and then their followers notice you.

That's one example of good organic growth on this platform. There is a list as long as my arm of people who have been very successful doing just that on Steemit, and I think it's the correct path to follow.

Curation is important, but I wouldn't expect to increase my reputation or Steem Power based solely upon it. Posting meaningful article about things you know and care about is what's going to get you ahead here.