You're so on point. In my experience, the best way to rank up here on the forum is to be original. Don't chase the merits and it'll come to you. You just have to be original and contribute actively. Because if you do put merits as your end point, you easily become frustrated when you aren't getting as much merits s you feel you should.
@OP, The feeling is almost the same for everyone. You get to feel very much fulfilled. You also feel good about yourself. The feeling of accomplishing a feat.