Longtime FFXIV players have been talking about this problem for a very long time. The fact that the MSQ is so long and also so mandatory for so much of the game is an inherent design trap. After a base game and three expansions it is an enormous barrier and the only solution SHOULDNT be to slog through it OR buy a story boost (which you also need a level boost for first).

With a huge influx of WoW players we're just collecting data to confirm what we all already know: they NEED to find a way to make the MSQ less of a burden for people who aren't interested in it but want to do current content with friends. They've started "pruning" MSQ a bit, but their first efforts have been pretty...well, paltry. Always hoping things improve in the future.