I've change my MR approach last year & it worked out great.
-In Oct 2012, DL had an amazing deal for Feb 2013 RT MCO>OGG for $320. With my routings, I earned about 10,000 MQM's and had 6 wonderful days in Maui.
- I hit Plat again late 2012 and my 2012 rollover MQM's into 2013 plus the Hawaii trip put me in a good position for hitting Plat in 2013.
- With work travel very busy & routing my segments creatively, plus my AMEX Reserve MQM bonuses, I was able to avoid a MR in 2013.
- In late 2013, I booked a RT to STT for January 2014. With roll over MQM's I'll be in a good place already for hitting 2014 Plat.
Travel safe!