I've basically been grounded (medical and family concerns) for a couple of years, and probably for most of the next, during which time my elite status (EXP, then "soft" Plat) with AA has lapsed, so I'm back to LT Gold.

In the past I used DONExs to get part (or much) of the way to EXP, for probably the same reasons as you - the EXP desk for when things go sideways, and the SWUs (which run the gamut of terrific to not-so depending on the routes and times.)

I'll probably do an xONEx in about a year (but not certain enough to book one now) but given the new AA rules I'm seriously considering bolting to BA. With my (typical) routes I'd have no problem making BA Gold (= AA EXP) but with the added advantage of giving me lounge access on domestic/Canada flights within North America, the same perks as any AA elite would have re fast track lines, baggage allowance, etc.) plus things like 2-4-1s and other BA perks including MFUs from WT+ to Club on my not-too-infrequent SEA-LHR flights.

Anyway, that's my thinking at present.