It takes c. 1500 hours to get an ATPL!!!
True but you don't need to have an ATPL to be a co-pilot on an airliner! Statistically those who listen to the pre-departure briefs are more likely to survive an accident. So don't try and look supercool and read the paper, pay attention each and every time so that in the event of an emergency your reponses are automatic.
Now, if someone can tell me how to make that "sinking" feeling just after
take off feel less weird
That weird feeling may in fact be the flaps being retracted in which case it will feel like a "sinking" feeling. Next time if you are near a window have a look outside and see if it coincides with the flaps (at the back of the wing) retracting into the wing.