Like the others have said above the Floof-O-Meter is just a little contraption that lets other people know how much that they are appreciated and have given a helping hand around the forums.
I used to be discouraged when I first joined the forums. But then I started to work harder. Post more often, help others more and contribute something to the forums.
You see, the Floof-O-Meter isn't about popularity, it's about helping others and being kind c: If I ever see someone with more nuzzles then me then it only motivates me to work harder :3
I sometimes see nuzzles given out to people who make presets, mods, maps and even just making an interesting character bio. I hope this helps you with your discouragement, even I don't have many nuzzles, but I still try harder c:
If you're viewing the floof o meter count as a badge of popularity that's already a bad start.
Lord has an excellent point here.
Try to view the Floof-O-Meter as how much you've helped people. The more you help others or do something in the community, you'll receive more floofs.
Try to get in a habit where if you see someone with more floofs. Encourage yourself to work harder. It's what I do. It feels good helping others. Don't view it as popularity. View it as helpfulness.