The Problem with Paladin

[Estellios]

If you want to be more self sufficient, try getting ahold of some potions. I was discussing with my PLD friend and it seems like getting into the habit of using Maddening potions (+100 enmity for 1 minute with a 5 minute medicine restriction) is a nice way to start off the fight.

Looking at the abilities, it seems like with a Paladin in a group they are meant to heal the rest of the group either directly with Holy Succor or indirectly with Divine Veil, while the WHM mainly focuses on the PLD and heals anyone that requires any emergency healing. This is even backed up with the AF body seemingly making Cover last its full duration instead of one hit, and especially now that you don't have to get in front of the target for Cover to work you can pop it as its needed.

As far as maintaining your MP, get a competent BRD. WHMs are required for Parties so I think it's fine if BRD is required for tougher fights.

Aside from that, once again, look into new medicines. Mega-Ethers recover 600 MP over time and restrict medicines for 4 minutes. That should be enough for some Holy Succor'ing in the mean time and should go a long way especially with a BRD. And if BRD is enough to keep your MP going just grab some more Maddening potions. You could even have the rest of the group use Nerve Drops at the start of the fight for the -80 Enmity it gives.

Edit: Also, if you have a PLD you can go nuts with MNKs in a group since you can help heal them with your abilities and it justifies having a BRD give the Melee Ballad of Magi. MNK can keep up its ludicrous damage with constant MP recovery so it's win-win for your group.