I think the biggest thing holding Nostr back right now (besides the network effect) is UX (including how to setup wallets etc) and the lack of uppfront information on how the relays work with NIPs . 

I think a better overall onboarding and more stable clients will go a long way. I'm sure the Nostr community will get there soon.. Tons of activity on the dev side. 

The concept is great I think, just need to mature a bit.