On the contrary, I got my first boost (without trying for it). There might, given the volume, be some luck there.

Yes, the article was self published and I posted it late last night (Maybe that's the trick? Post at night?).

And as it was only boosted overnight, I don't know the results yet. Looking at my stats right now, the article concerned has 15 views, 5 reads, and 2 claps, so definitely nothing yet, but I wouldn't really expect it because middle of the night.

I'm not doing read for read either.