Meta is a fine place for this topic.  It seems like it's been a while since I've seen this type of thread, they used to be very common last year.

Merit is earned when you make a worthy post.  Participate in the discussions, stay on topic, provide helpful insight and advice and merit will come your way.  Just don't think about it too much, because invariably those who try hard to earn merit wont.  Those who contribute the forum will.