This is an inspirational article, Isaiah - quite simple, direct, actionable and profound. I always wanted to write and am finally channelling my inner mojo to get down to it, find it totally rewarding already.
Really admire your implicit perspective of not chasing popularity or $$ but engagement, quality content, fulfillment and freedom!
My take on this is based on Daniel Pink's excellent "Drive". Big takeaway: creativity is painful and the “carrot and stick” approach hinders it. Akin to your advice, Pink says that nurturing and cajoling our intrinsic motivation leads to enhanced output and satisfaction, more so than extrinsic rewards such as money, fame, followers, claps, etc. Titled "Unlock Your Inner Mojo" - would really appreciate your feedback on it!
https://medium.com/write-and-review/unlock-your-inner-mojo-e1b49dde7130