I believe that everyone have different answers. My answer is that you never know who will be active. Probably your own sponsor ask the same questions when he/she find you: 'Is he going to be active?' We all have that question, but the best way is to be persistence and don't give up.
Stay focused, advertise, motivate your downline, be creative and new affiliates will see that, recognize your efforts and want to do the same.
I wish you success and a lot of active affiliates.