Instagram is testing likes counter which is usually visible below your posts. The update is not completely rolled out yet but is under testing. Let's see how it will impact.
Instagram likes active users. If you constantly upload new content, it will definitely be noticed. I can tell you my little secret. Sometimes I use this service https://xplodsocial.com/instagram-marketing-blog/ to boost followers in my account. It allows you to automatically like, comment and subscribe to other instagram users based on certain targeting criteria (location, interests, hashtags). You don't have to thank me for my help!