Looks like you have a realistic idea how the industry is already.
Either have the tenure to endure the never ending barrage of **** it throws at you, or move on. The key is trying to find that balance where the job is awesome and you don't have w@nkers running the show. It's a rarity. Not worth throwing a hundred grand at to get qualified unless you really really want it - other life choices / responsibilities not withstanding.
As for waiting for the next fabled pilot employment boom, are you willing to wait 10+ years to see if it even happens?