There's no cheating as there is no obligation to pay. As earlier stated, you can still make it through hard work. Expect that process to be a lengthy one though. The system is clearly now designed to get you there quicker - when you pay. Steemit did no doubt start out as a noble cause. That's no longer the mission though. If you go to YT and watch the steemfest videos you will get an understanding of where development is heading. Even if you watch this video below recently uploaded by Exyle you will see how he has also realized this and accepted it.