It is a problem of too much dungeon content, too many levels, a still bloated MSQ, and SEs unwillingness to rework the system in place.
IMO, it will always be the current expansion which will present the best experience in both difficulty and job representation.
The more expansions there are, the more the earlier expansions will just be dumbed down exponentially.

The system as it is now is merely a way to get you to to level as fast as possible. You aren't meant to explore the overworld with this design in place.
Class to job is not transformative, it is an archaic idea that no longer translates well and imo should no longer exist.
It once took quite great effort to get to level 50 when that was cap and getting a job stone at 30 was quite a goal.

Early game needs a revamp and I do not envy new player experience today.