Heya Paul,
I personally don't spend too much time worrying a rat's fig about rankings. I have one Wizzle thats sat at 4% since release into the wild. Its an article that won't rank or rank well (on the SERPS) for some time. This is due to the nature of the subject and the article itself still needs some padding out and refining and some fine tuning over the next few weeks.
It will be my sleeper for a while but it is designed to earn me some mula, rather than rank well internally.
Conversly, I had another Wizzle that got nods and appreciations from you guys and gals, and that was a nice touch. The article ended up in the front 'Buzzing' category for a couple of days and I appreciated that.
But now I am back to the great aspect of writing good content, and content that earns a penny, provides value to my readers and challenges me to keep the bar on quality writing on the up and up.
As Chefkeem has stated about the subject and apologies for the momentary sidetrack, I sincerely hope Google does not put to much into social attachments for article writers/Google+/ ranking articles on social interactions. I dread it, as I simply do not have the time or wherewithal for it.
P.S.
Paul, your writing is above average, your very knowledgeable about your niches and I value your opinion and suggestion when and where you have made them. I see much of you in your joy in helping others. That in itself has to be rather motivating. 
