As one of those mid-50s crafters at the moment, I can say that I enjoyed the process of leveling, found it was good to help build airships for the FC using the crafting recipes I'd learned. I've noticed that it is fairly easy (although not immediate) making level 54+ HQ gear and selling it ... not millions, but at least a million over a week's time. You should definitely get gathering up there (mine are all at 60 now) in order to provide the mats for crafting.

I like the level 50 Master recipes because they allow me to make some really nice glamour gear (augmented tabard of aiming) for myself. (And craft airship repair parts, of course). Other than that?

I'm in no hurry, nor do I have a 'gil goal' that I must absolutely make. After all, if the game feels like a second job, why bother?