Community is the key to XIV atm. Op's ls does things very similar to what I do with my linkshell.

Having a linkshell to keep active is what the game more or less requires atm.

Honestly I think half the issues are people trying to get by with small social linkshells and trying to get by with shout groups for events. Atm that simply will not work. Get into a linkshell of 15+ish active ppl who want to play the game and you will never have problems finding something to do everyday. Ls Leaders of active groups schedule events, if people know they can get on and do something immediately they will get on at that time. When everyone knows hey I am in a linkshell that is active (always doing something) people are less likely to bounce between 5-8 linkshells which is a major reason so many linkshells are hurting for members alot.

This game can keep you busy especially if it is with a linkshell. Especially one where the leaders go out of the way to plan activities.

This game is horrible solo, but when you add in other players. It is surprisingly entertaining. And when everyone start working together for a goal bigger then self improvement, it is actually pretty fun.

My linkshell is not the norm we have an average of 30-32 people online throughout NA prime time which is huge for this game atm and really you can get by with 1/2 if you are not serious about endgame, but how we operate sounds alot like the OP's linkshell. With scheduled events and what not. And her statment about community and finding the right linkshell cannot be more true. Being without a linkshell or a wrong linkshell your experience will be horrible, find the right one and you will log in just to play with the group. "if it wasn't for this linkshell I would of have quit" I heard that line so many times from my members, makes you feel good but I truly believe the right ls/guild makes the game.

People wanting to find an active group, look for one with scheduled events that does them. Don't have to be hardcore ls, but one that actively does things as a group.

Leaders wanting to get people who will not insta-quit/bring drama into your linkshell, schedule some activities even if they are optional... if people know they can log on and have something they can do... they will.