I think this is the best way! Also I don't think Hubski needs to be the only site that is relaxed, friendly, inclusive. So the idea of it needing to somehow defeat other websites does not seem very useful.
When I tell people that I co-founded and have been working on Hubski for 5 years, they immediately ask if we make money. When I tell them it actually costs is money they think we are insane.
Making music also costs me money. Many things that are worth while do not have a profit motive ascribed to it. Building something of worth is enough reward. You would be hard pressed to find many other communities where the intent wasn't to grow, grow, grow.
I'd like more people, but only because I know there are people out there searching for something like Hubski. Plus we all benefit from more, interesting people. But I have no illusions that Hubski will make me monetarily wealthy. It's certainly enriched me though.