[quote=@Dynamo Frokane]

Its just about keeping the RP interesting as possible, usually finding that right balance between player freedom and focus to make someone excited to comeback. Also building an RP model that wont end the RP if someone drops. This is why Sandbox RPs usually do so well.
[/quote]

Sometimes that doesn't work. Some players want to be told how to go about things. Sometimes you can't reignite the interest of an RP.

Luck & Timing might play a role in this though. Sometimes its about the when and how an RP is set up and the "perfect who" come around and the life of the RP is ridiculously long. 

Also, gonna hit you with a PM here in a minute. Have a Q about your RPs.