So slowly the airlines raise the "prices" of awards outrightly by increasing miles needed, creating different zones, etc, as well as secretly, limited availability for PerkSaver awards.

If you don't use them now, you'll get less later.

So this is what I do.
If traveling with others, I try to buy their ticket with miles and they buy my ticket so I can get EQM and more miles.

I give them away frequently

If I've achieved the status I want (usually only can make Gold) after I do so each year, I start flying on miles and save my own money.

I think upgrades are definately worth it since I'm 6'5 granted I usually can't afford the B or Y fares...