I have learned to keep my expectations low and try write for myself first. If I'm feeling really discouraged, I try to remember how many times I read something that I enjoy that I don't kudos/comment on. This both akes me feel better, makes me really appreciate every kudos or comment for the special little thing it is, and actually gets me to take that extra step more often as a reader to let the writer know I'm out there, like paying it forward.