This whole SP nerf would been fine post 1.20 when we see the jobs, beastmen strongholds, alot more content that people could do along the way.
If there were 5 more dungeons, proper party seek function, redesigned maps with proper exp camps, proper behest, campaign like system, etc etc, flying pigs and chocobos, no one would've mind gimp exp as long as the way to 50 would been enjoyable.
However, now it's a grind and not a pleasant one. Should've really thought this through SE.