Bitcoin Forum

The topic started specifically for new comers of the forum, and even for old ones who have still got stucked at lower ranks.

I think that from the stories, new comers and lower-ranked users can learn from those promoted guys and their shared stories.
Their approaches to learn knowledge in the forum;
Their ways to join discussions in constructive sides;
Their attitude and real activities to help others with their knowledge, experience, skills, and their time.

I hope that those stories in the below list will inspire readers.
I also hope that readers will be able to connect those stories by themselves and learn from them.

Legendary members
Self made Legendary (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5208564.0) (Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983) (he has not yet ranked up to Legendary)

---

Hero members
1) I have achieved 500+ earned merit. (Motivational) (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5111296.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983))
2) One year achievement (newbie should read to learn how you have to build yourself (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5125667.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983))
3) wwzsocki's brief story (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5135934.msg50837217#msg50837217)
4) [INFOGRAPHIC] Experiences of a Bitcointalk Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.0) (by crwth (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=914465))
5) This is my BTC, Bitcointalk story, what is yours? (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5158016.0) (by wwzsocki (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=131333))
6) Open appreciation, achievement of Hero rank (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5161223.0) (by CryptopreneurBrainboss (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1052091)).
7) Zero to Hero (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5166295.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983)).
8. Baofeng's story (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5158016.msg51621094#msg51621094)
9) [DISCUSSION] What have you learned on BITCOINTALK FORUM? Share Your Experiences. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5169930.0) (by cabalism13 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1605387))
10) I am on the way to Hero Member rank. Within less than 2 years from register day (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5169623.0) (by tranthidung (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1292764))
11) Just now achieved 800 merit. (Motivational post for newbies) (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5185789.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983))
12) Ranking up is possible! 2000 Merits earned in less than 12 months!My 11 Hints! (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5098333.0) (by fillippone (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1852120))

---

Senior Member
1) Sr. Member thanks to the merit system (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5040838.0) (by vlad230 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1268116))
2) Finally a turtle crossed the finish line (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5057502.0) (by r1s2g3 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1446224))
3) Full Member thanks to the Merit system. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=3174862.0) (by iasenko (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1291828))
4) Finally! 101 merit and 84 activity!! Celebration Post! My thoughts on merit. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=3306385.0) (by bitmover (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1554927))
5) Self made sr. member not being a pro in the cyrpto field ... (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5118879.0) (by cryptovigi (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1697068))
6) Zero To Hero in under 4 months. (My Merit Journey). (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5119148.0) (by mikeywith (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=2033515))
7) Promotion with merit system and new rank requirements. It's possible. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5121906.0) (by tranthidung (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1292764))
8. Some words about merit system (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5135934.0) (by tbct_mt2 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1096237))
9. cabalism132' infographic (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.msg51465283#msg51465283) (by cabalism13 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1605387))
10) finaleshot2016's story (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.msg51450565#msg51450565) (by finaleshot2016 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=888099))
11) Road to hero membership (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5175557.0) (by TalkStar (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=2136362))
12) [Achivement]Finally I am a self-made senior member! (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5195720.0), by TheUltraElite (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=878630).
13) [Motivation BITCOIN4X] From Newbie To Senior Member & Now OTW to Hero Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5211323.0) (by BITCOIN4X (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1903411))
14) From Member rank to Senior Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5205144.0) (by cryptoaddictchie (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1269701))
15) My journey in 2019 - 2020 (Nothing is impossible) (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5214808.0) (by Rengga Jati (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1276008))

---

Full Members
1) Say thanks to merit system. Finally, I am a Full Member, next a self-made Senior  (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5100172.0) (by tranthidung (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1292764))
2) Another win for the merit system. Thank you LoyceV (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5098486.0), (by CryptopreneurBrainboss (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1052091))
3) „Self made” Full member thanks to Theymos? Not exactly, but in a sense… (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5065990.0) (by cryptogivi (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1697068))
4) yazher's infographic (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.msg51427127#msg51427127) (by yazher (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1069571))
5) A New Milestone Achieved! (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5166181.0) (by nakamura12 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1726595)).
6) It can be done (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5169022.0) (by Bttzed03 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1239188)).
7) The problem begins and ends with YOU. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5134565.0) (by Aero Blue (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=881078))

In waiting list:
1) samcrypto's infographic (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.msg51461953#msg51461953) (by samcrypto  - a potential Full Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1218995))


- A very long list of cases in the rank (480 cases by now), I will screen them all later days.

---

Notes:
- I will add more ones into the current list when I see new ones by chance.
- Someone who read the topic, and has not been listed in the list above, please give me link to your topic and your story.

Rules:
- Un-constructive, post-count hunting, non-sense, merit-begging threads are not welcome here and will be deleted.

Appreciate all your help to make the list longer over time.

Being somewhat active but not just because "you have to rank up/get the bounty" is a start.

I find other languages part of the forum more prone to discussion and less to spam so if you can try to post there too.

Don't see the use of this post. You only pointed out three post one of your self and one of a fellow you earlier pointed out on your own personal story post.
You have ranked up that is great why not continue being positive rather than making merit fishing post

Your list is 100% incomplete.

Look at this post, I think that guy made a complete list.

https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=4850225.0

Ah, I already known the topic, and this one:
Forum chronicle - UP Rank List (BPIP statistics, trust (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5024849.0) (by Nikisa (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=2154195))

My objectives are different than those twos:
What I really want to collect are stories of constructive guys, who already ranked-up with their self-made efforts, and great initiatives.
Only some of them shared their stories, and I tried collecting their available stories and post them here.
In real life, stories will make a difference. Some of them are boring stories, some of them are inspirational ones, like the speech of Steve Jobs at the Stanford university years ago.
Even boring stories, readers can find some interesting points/ lessons inside. That totally depends upon the viewpoints of each readers. Inspirational stories usually have magical impacts on human mood, attitude, can change the way they grow up/ rank up in the forum space.

Yesterday, ideas come out, then I created the topic immediately to avoid forgetting it.
I believe those two topics will help me to finish my objectives.
I will spend my time to screen all ranked-up cases to see how many guys shared their stories, and will fullfil the list later days.

---

I don't really get your opinion.
So, what did you call my topic? Has it been a pseudo-constructive one?  ::)
Sometimes, people have to pay fees to listen to famous ones.
Those shared experience is totally free, simply enjoy it, and grasp specific helpful points for your interests.

---

If you don't see the topic is helpful, meaningful, and inspirational for you. Simply skip it, or even add me into your Ignore list.
That's all.
From now on, I will turn the topic into a Self-moderated one. All un-constructive threads will be deleted.

18 months ago, you could make money taking part in bounty campaigns.
Having a better rank could give you more money.
Today, the profit from bounties is near zero, so ranking up has no meaning.

Well, take a look at my history here then. Shared it long time ago :)
bitmover
Finally! 101 merit and 84 activity!! Celebration Post! My thoughts on merit. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=3306385.0)



Edit:
Found another one
https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5098333.0;topicseen

I missed your case when screening.
Update the OP with your story, and one sMerits has sent to you for your help.

You need to be active, and keep aware of the changing politics in the forum. When the merit system was introduced, all the talk was of merits, and awards were given for services associated with the new system. Rhen we moved on to the changes in the Defsult Trust system, and this evolved into the war between the Russians and TMAN and Lauda. Hopefully that is dying down now, and we can move on to something else.

Of course you could always take a radical approach, and start talking about the next big price breakout for Bitcoin.

You will probably find it hard to find some kind of testimonial from Legendries and Heroes that ranked-up under the Merit System. In case it’s of use to you, this is the list of those two ranks that have managed it as of last Friday:

The first one I remember was hugeblack > https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=3166903.0
I remember it because I gave him the merit to rank up.
Same was with TheQuin, I ranked him up to Hero but he did't made any threads about it.
Btw I had a service to help people to rank up if they need 1-2 merit back then ;)

The thread I made and mentioned above was when I ranked up to Full member, I don't see point of making threads anymore, it was just in the beginning when people were unsure if the system was good or bad. Now the system was proven working so I don't think I'll post anything at the end of the next month when I reach Hero.
I need less then 300 for Legendary but need also more then a 1.5 years activity, and I guess It won't be a problem to get 300 merit. I don't really see the point of having more than 1000 if there is no other rank above. Only for reputation.

Finally, I think that I have a relevant tittle for the topic, much better than the last one.
I change the tittle to 'Inspirational stories from self-made promoted users'.

---

The topic of hugeblack does not contain any story (or that guy edited it and made it empty).
I known it months ago.
At that time, your story inspired me a lot.

---

Thanks. I updated the topic with the story already.

---

I appreciated your list.
I don't think there are many users will tell their stories when they ranked up from Hero to Ledgendary. Maybe they will if they promoted from Senior Member to Hero.
I will screen the list later when I have more time because it is hard to screen all topics of Hero and Ledgendary.

I think that most of those histories were from early 2018, just after the merit system was implemented.
As hero and legendary needs lots of merits, taking a longer time, there are no histories from them (as far as I know)

Maybe if you search a lot you may find something from nullius. He earned more than 700 merits in few weeks here, he knew a lot about cryptography and cryptocurrencies

I known that, some guys promoted to Hero or Legendary but they did not care to share their stories. It's their choices.

I also known the case of nullius (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=976210), and believe that all members who were actively in the forum during early weeks after the launch of merit system known nullius.
That guy appeared as a shooting star, earned lots of merits.
And, his works, unbelievable high-qualited, especially for low-ranked user. He is a classic case study during that period. Lots of forum users admired him, even higher ranked ones.
There is a theory that nullius is alt of someone in the forum, just try two things:
- Trolling Spambies.
- Demonstrating the lower-ranked users can rank up with merit system.
After around three-month period was extremely active in the forum, nullius shut-off. No one knows which reasons behind.
Date of register:
First thread's publishing day: https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=976210;sa=showPosts;start=920 (around 9 months after register day)
Shut-off day:
During the period from 01 Dec 2017 to 30 Jan 2018 (nearly 3-month period), nullius made 15-paged threads, after that (from 30 Jan 2018 to 24 Apr 2018 - another 3-month period) he made 32-paged threads more, before shutting off.
In other words, he became much more actively after the launch of merit system.

---

If I remembered exactly, there is another account considered as alt of nullius, got massive amount of sMerits, been actively after nullius shut-off. I don't remember that account's name.

This is really good and can serve us in the lower ranks as an inspiration that it is possible to rank up if you try hard enough, have the needed time and also a bit of luck.

From now on, threads like these twos will be deleted:


If readers feel that the topic is helpful, simply enjoy it.
If they have topics to contribute, please comment, and give link to stories they find.
If there is nothing to contribute, please simply skip or ignore the topic.

Thank you.

I've register here in forum year ago and been on from being a brand new to Jr. Member after a month. Then the merit requirement emerge but I still remain a Jr. member but September last year I've been made a brand new member again by imposing a new rule that Jr. member should earn 1 merit. By the motivation to rank up I learn how other member does to get merit and here I am now wearing that 2 shiny gold coin under my rank and name. Just an advice there's no really easy way even on ranking up here in forum, life teach us that way too.

Next destination to take, "Be a full pledge Full Member" rank and who knows my topic (inspirational story) will be added here too.  :o

There is more than a year in the period above lol

nullius has 168 activity, which is means he used the forum for about 5 months.

Well I went from Hero to Legendary, and I think that the Fit to Talk English project, and my merit source blog were contributing factors.

LOL, sorry about the mistake.
I saw both days in 2018  :-\
Edited my thread already.

---

I will find and add your story into the list of inspirational stories.
ATM, I enjoy songs in your Bitcointunes store.  ;D

The topic is obviously not an inspirational story, but this one is an inspirational tips on ranking up.
I think it's acceptable to leave it here for newbies.
cabalism13's Activity Tips on Ranking (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5097635.0) (by cabalism13 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1605387))

I was one of the lucky people who ranked up to Legendary before the merit were introduced. I have to tell you that it was not "easy going" to reach this level, because a lot of other things were going on at the time. A lot of people were against signature campaigns at the time and some still are, so our posts were put under a magnifying glass and frequently reported for spamming.

It takes a lot of effort/research/grammar checking and reading to constantly provide constructive <quality> posts and sMerit is still important, even after you reached the highest ranks. <sMerit requirements for some Sig campaigns>  :P   

Thanks for your stories.
Your total merits till now disclosed lots of things. One of them, you are not a shitty posters.
Shitty posters will be unable to earn 1184 merits around one year after the start of merit system.  :)

Inspirational stories can help you to learn the right path to thread and help you start up on the right part as other users would share stories that'll help motivate you to brush up your posts the way they did and it'll be invaluable to you in the long run
Being a legendary member will take you quite a long time to achieve,so it's best you start from lower ranks like Jr member and keep pushing till you probably make it to legendary

Success stories could be very helpful and inspiring but if hard work is not blended with it. Then it would not yield fruit so as you read about success story's you add believe and back it up with hard work

How about inspirational posts that were made because of the forum? Like this one. https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5100141.0

I just remembered because it’s also great to talk about the possible rewards with staying in this forum, not just the knowledge that can be read and learn here but earning BTC too.

I don't know if you could consider this inspirational stories, but I remember mjglqw (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=886521/) posting this on Chipmixer thread,

Thanks for sharing.
The post of mjglqw is an inspirational one, but it is only a post, not a real story.
So, I reject to add this one into the OP's list of inspirational stories.

Thanks, but I rejected that one because the topic created on 21 Jan. 2018, days before the beginning of merit system.

You are in the 1 to 2 % of forum who were not posting shit. Actually you earned decent amount of merit. Many users fail to understand that knowledge ultimately pays.
Think, if you did not improved yourself and continued with shit, I guess you will get the opportunity that you are currently having.

I think you have misread the date of the post that I included, it's 2019. And it's very recent. The topic is closed now, probably to prevent more spam but nonetheless, I think it could be a great addition but not just for promotion for members. Probably another topic then.

https://i.imgur.com/342NFPn.png

I sorry for my blinded eyesight.
I actually mis-saw it as 2018, not 2019.
Thank you for correcting me.
Nevertheless, the topic you gave is an inspirational story that crypto enthusiast can get massive rewards from their hard works, patience, and smart approach. After all, they can use rewards as funds for their trips.
Unfortunately, it seems that you mis-understood the purpose of the topic, in which I wanted to show the inpirational stories from users who ranked up from lower ranks (Junior Members and below) to much higher positions with tough challenges from merit system and new rank requirements.

To sum up, your given topic is an inspirational one, but is not relevant for my topic.
Sorry, I don't add it into my list.

Update with another inspirational story.
This one comes from potential Hero Member.
I called him as a potential Hero because he earned enough merits, but have not had enough activity count to rank up to Hero.
I have achieved 500+ earned merit. (Motivational) (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5111296.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983))

After three weeks, I have another inspirational story for you.
This time, cryptogivi (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1697068) promoted to a Senior Member hours ago.
I am impressed with what he reached, so I scanned his merit history, and luckily see the story that told his journey to be a self-made Full Member.
Here you go:
„Self made” Full member thanks to Theymos? Not exactly, but in a sense… (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5065990.0)
I also added the story to the OP.

Thank you for including my post in the list of motivational posts.
I am constantly updating my story, crafting the best guide to write good posts and then received merits.
Last month has been ectic and I raked up a good bunch of merits and I already see the “Sr. Member” status at the horizon!
I’ll try to keep the bar high!

The real benefit of the merit system is the encouragement of self-improvement. This really has nothing to do with rank increases, but is related to community contributions and reputation. Whilst rank improvement can give you some short term income advantages, the greatest gain will come from you contributions and reputation in the wider Internet environment. Whatever you rank, you should be reflection on the merits you earn here, and if you feel that they are not being awarded fast enough, then try to work out how you can improve your activities.

Updated one more inspirational story for today.
This time, it is a story comes from a recently self-promoted Senior Member.
Self made sr. member not being a pro in the cyrpto field ... (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5118879.0) (by cryptovigi (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1697068))

Updated the topic with one more story.
The case of mikeywith is he has gotten enough merits for his Hero Member's merit requirements within four months.
I also added it into the Senior Member stories in the OP.

---

Here you go:
Zero To Hero in under 4 months. (My Merit Journey). (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5119148.0) (by mikeywith (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=2033515))

Updated the OP with one more story, it is mine.
Promotion with merit system and new rank requirements. It's possible. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5121906.0) (by tranthidung (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1292764))

---

Promoted with merit system, yes you can!

Updated the OP with Coolcryptovator's story published nearly a month ago, but I just found it today. Sorry for the late update.
One year achievement (newbie should read to learn how you have to build yourself (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5125667.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983))
It's time for you all to read and enjoy new story.

There is a short story of wwzsocki, and tbct_mt2.

Some words about merit system (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5135934.0) (by tbct_mt2 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1096237))

By the way, someone who has your story can post link here.

Best,
Tran Thi Dzung

Please let me know if you have new stories (yours or any story you find).

There is a topic, in which there are five stories, from one Hero Member, two Senior Members, one Full Member, and one Member, have been published so far. I don't like infographics, but those ones tell their chronological achievements in the forum, then I decided to add them in the list.
Please visit that topic and saw those stories:
[INFOGRAPHIC] Experiences of a Bitcointalk Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5153084.0)
OP udated!

Whoa, that's super motivational for a totally green dude like me. Thanks for sharing!

Added.
This is my BTC, Bitcointalk story, what is yours? (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5158016.0) (by wwzsocki (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=131333))

Shame that I haven't found this thread earlier.

I would just publish my story here to avoid stupid accusations about merit fishing.

Is just too much for me to fight with these members which always look for a hole in the whole.

If one writes a guide, tutorial or great translation - merit fishing.
If one writes his story - merit fishing.

But personal wars and accusations threads in the reputation section are great for them. For me, this is obvious merits fishing.
I don't mean all members which are posting there of course, but only some of them.

It is always ridiculous to see stupid guys accused others with their helpful contributions and motivational stories. Ignore them is the best option, IMO.

---

Whatever people do, creating their own threads, translating good threads into their local languages, or just a post to discuss or give someone else a trick; they deserves merits for their works. IMO, it is a bit hilarious to see sometimes translational threads receceived more merits than original ones.  :o
Today, I gave out my 10 merits as small gifts to good posters, and felt happily with my decision. I ranked up from other gifts, now it's time to make someone else happy.
They don't understand that at some specific period, writing good posts is a habit, and writers even don't think of merits. Basically, when we effortlessly write (without distraction on whether we will get merits or not), we can write better posts. It's a key point. Merits will come when it's time, there is no reason to observe our threads, posts or profile pages to see whether we receive merits for our latest posts or not.

You nailed it!!!

A few years ago to start a thread on Bitcointalk was just mission impossible for me.

During the time I just mastered how to post, quote and now I have almost 60 threads started during the last 2 years.

It is so true that the last thing I thought about was the merits awards.

I was rather more concerned about my privacy and had to cut off a lot of text, to not disclose too much private info and even for a second haven't thought about merits.

Just promoted to Hero and am really happy with that.

You nailed it, too, wwzsocki. Simply enjoy fun from writing, then merits will naturally drop on our heads, that in turn will help us to rank up efforlessly.
Writing effortlessly, and ranking up effortlessly.

---

A new story added: Baofeng's story (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5158016.msg51621094#msg51621094)

A new story from a fully self-made Hero member.
Open appreciation, achievement of Hero rank (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5161223.0) (by CryptopreneurBrainboss (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1052091)).

I don’t have time to write a long winded post, but figured I could help some newbies with advise.

TMAN’S guide.

1) read the rules
2) read them again
3) then once more
4) be yourself don’t try to imitate
5) help people
6) don’t take shit to seriously
7) remember this is a forum and not RL
8) do not use google translate, if you can’t write In English then post in local sections
9) be here for the right reasons? If you just want bounties you won’t go very far
10) shitposting pajeets are the equivalent of telemarketers, you just puss the rest of us off.

When I have more time I’ll write a more comprehensive post, but for now please just read the forum, if you don’t have anything decent to write then don’t waste your time.

Xxx much love

Appreciated your words, @TMAN. You wrote your guide more than one year ago: TMAN'S guide to getting merit. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=3182178.0). It seems that you forgot your thread.

---

I also made my guide here: Promotion with merit system and new rank requirements. It's possible. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5121906.0)
This is a long guide, but in short, there are six key points:
(1) Never begging for merits
(2) Spending most of your time to read and learn
(3) Never copy and paste without links to sources, or without quotes
(4) Never mind of bounties, campaigns when you are noobs
(5) Learn from inspirational stories. Learn from merited users, topics, posts
(6) Spend your time to improve your English, especially Reading and Writing skills
For more details, please read the guide.

Shit.. forgot that thread, I know one member who listened to me is now on DT thanks to me pointing out he was a bounty hunting shitposter. What a difference for him now.

What did you imply? I guess that you implied iasenko and his spambuster club, didn't you?

No. Another memeber bud. Plus I had a few messages at the time thanking me, I may be a rude prick but I do like to help people as well.

Two new stories added, from a Hero member, and a Full Member.
Zero to Hero (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5166295.0) (by Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983)).
A New Milestone Achieved! (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5166181.0) (by nakamura12 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1726595)).

My plan is to motivate newbies, jr. members and feeling newbies like me because I won't consider myself knowledgeable enough to call myself pro or expert when we discuss about cryptoworld but I do have some knowledge that I learn from threads, thread reply and opinion from respected pros or experts in crypto field who are ready to teach or share to whoever is interested to learn about crypto related matter in this very forum. I did try to motivate some people and I'm also got motivated by you OP when you add my story in your thread of inspirational stories from self-promoted users, that made me think and feel that there's still a forum user left that noticed my achievements and my contributions that I did in this forum even if it's not that much and other people here except spammers, shitposters and other type of people who only think about himself.

Some of these members shot up the ranks in seemingly record time. Looks like if you're somewhat active and don't beg for attention - and actually contribute to the discussion - you're on your way.

Today, I added a new-found story, from a self-made Full member
It can be done (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5169022.0) (by Bttzed03 (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1239188)).

Today, we have another selfmade Hero Member. Congratulations, @cabalism13!
[DISCUSSION] What have you learned on BITCOINTALK FORUM? Share Your Experiences. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5169930.0)

This thread is contentful, and deserves a slot in OP. Added!
The problem begins and ends with YOU. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5134565.0) (by Aero Blue (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=881078))

I have read several of the stories and it is quite simply inspirational, I most especially liked the story of Mikey with who joined the forum for an entirely different reason but ended up being a hero.member today, it has truly inspired me to give this forum my best.

Thread needs updating. Aero Blue is now a full member.

Finished. I knew that guy became a Full Member days ago, but forgot that he has a story listed here. Thank you for reminding me.

TalkStar, who ranked up to Senior Member recently, told about his story.
Road to hero membership (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5175557.0) (by TalkStar (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=2136362))

I ranked up a few days ago (thank you to all who helped me) and I can attest that the merit system is working and that the inspirational stories in the OP are helpful. Lower ranks should really take the opportunity to learn from them. All the guidelines or blueprint are already there, all that's needed is to apply them. 

Excellent, rosezionjohn.
More self-made promoted users, more proofs that merit system works and helps good users to rank up to higher ranks. Merit system gives more challenges for all users, but good users will take advantage of merit challenge to improve themselves, and it is only good for them. I don't know what exactly others' situations, but I actually spent more time to read and learn, after merit system kicked-off in January of 2018. It is a bit shame that I did not do it before January of 2018.
Anyway, we all live for current moments, not past ones. We learn from past, live for current moments.
Currently, I am here as a good user in forum, so are you.

---

For others, especially recently ranked up users, please give me your stories.

Although bounty campaigns is near zero when it comes to profit, we still need to acknowledge it for it really had been the very grounds of profit back then when bounty campaign is very boom and been the way for people to use cryptocurrency and discover more about it. The topic is actually nostalgic remembering how most of the members started earning crypto for not eveyone here is doing trading and investment. Back in 2017 when the bull run of crypto happened and everyone is enjoying the effect of it to their earnings.

A new story: [Achivement]Finally I am a self-made senior member! (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5195720.0), by TheUltraElite (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=878630).
For others, please give me your stories.

---

Update on 12th December 2019:

Self made Legendary (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5208564.0) (Coolcryptovator (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1980983)

Probably not very inspirational, more statistical, but here's my contribution none the less: https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5210972.msg53387231#msg53387231

Yes you are right I agree with you that you can only earn by participating in the campaign but not rank up. There are many good sides to the forum where without posting a scam I was able to get my rank up This is how I found my inspirational story.

Thank you for including my story [Motivation BITCOIN4X] From Newbie To Senior Member & Now OTW to Hero Member (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5211323.0) (by BITCOIN4X (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?action=profile;u=1903411)) in your thread tranthidung, I am verry happy to see it. When this story can inspire people, I hope I will not make myself arrogant. I am sure if we want, we will be able to achieve it. That's what I always say when finding those who rank lower complain about merit systems.

It's really interesting to read all this stories and I think such testimonies can inspire others.
When theymos introduced merits I remember that we had a lot complains from new members that such system is not fair.
Now,  we see many self-made promoted users and it's obvious from their stories that they don’t complain about merit system but simple trying to contribute to the forum,  share their experience and knowledge,  help others and they are rewarded accordingly.
So this is also message for new users,  don't complain about this forum and don't be negative.
It's much better approach to be positive and contribute to the forum with your knowledge and experience and community will recognise it and reward you.
All this testimonies from the introduction post confirm it.

Complaining is not the right way to get more merit from other users. Not many users who want to provide merit to those who complain but there is no effort to improve the quality of posts. Complaints will be useless and can even be ignored by some users.

Merit will not be given to those who only complain, but merit is given to users who want to change, try to improve the quality of posts, and do good things for the forum such as detecting scammer, and others.

Even when the merit source cant distribute merit on the right post because they do not have much time to find it, they also provide the opportunity for users to report the link the post will be sent merit.

Hello mate you can add my Inspirational story (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5205144.msg53198852#msg53198852) as well if you think my story is qualified in your list. I remember also your the one that give me 5merits lack in order to be a full membe rank. Thanks for believing me that I am qualified for it. Now, I'm almost near the 500 merits required for hero rank but I will wait until that day comes. Maybe another story for such achievement is worth telling the public. Thanks.

Your story added in OP. Please check.
I don't remember about you (username), but it seems I you are right because I remembered I gave away to some users, then PMed them that they will rank up soon in next few minutes.

This is a very nice thread/stories from which a beginner can be easily motivated. I think this thread needs to be "Bump" every few days. I found this thread today.

---

I want to share two more threads here that you can add to OP.
1. My 9 months & 850 merit (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5243019.0)
2. Member to Hero (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5245487.0)

The OP wasn't updated for a long time. I think it needs to be updated.  I am sharing some inspirational story here.
1. Road to Hero Rank + My Bitcointalk story (motivation & Journey) (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5272607.0)
2. THE ROAD -Sr. Member- -BITCOINTALK CHANGED ME- (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5269903.msg55025540#msg55025540)
3. Ranked up to full member. (https://bitcointalk.org/index.php?topic=5272503.0)

I guess you could still make some change money doing bounty tasks, it's not worth it tho...

Surely indeed, these testimonies are what keeps a lot of person going even though, the owner of OP or the testifier might not have known that at the time of creation of the op. It's very necessary that these stories are told because, it gives users with a particular need to profile up in the rank system the need to keep putting in work with the hope of being noticed and appreciated just like the various emeritus of testifying ranks that the user aspires to have.
So, keeping up with the testimonies isn't a careless effort or an appreciation to one's self alone as it offers useful encouragements and ensures community members keep up hope. For what are we without hope. Keep testifying people.

This is really a new thing, hope to be supported by members.