No worries Plotplot,
Kinda fun going back through my career like that. Lots of ups and downs.Some missed opportunities, but still better than having a real job.
I think you have worked it out for yourself. If you want to be a Pilot post Covid, I would be best to stick with being a pilot during Covid. Don't get hung up on what other Pilots are doing, that'll just get you wound up in a ball of resentment. This business is just a big game of snakes and ladders, the trick is steady progress and always be ready for the next step. Make sure you are applying for the jobs that interest you, Aeromed etc. But also consider other areas too, Night Freight is the best Job I had, I'd go back to it tomorrow if I could.
The Bush charter guy v City Instructor is a problem that has been around since Pontius was a Pilot, forget about it.
Use this time to finish your IR/ATPL's subjects if you don't have them, if you are bored, do some other studies, enjoy the flying you are doing now, it really is the best you will ever do.
Good luck
Roj