I was offered Travelclub Silver until early 2004. I was very grateful, as there was no way this year that I was going to complete the 40,000 miles necessary. I was sure I would be downgraded.
However, the preceding year I doggedly stuck with the Qualiflyer companies through the troubles into the Autumn, clearing Travelclub status no problem. I later learnt that status had been prolonged for many members (if not all) who had not qualified. In a way I feel that my 2004 prolongation is a gift for that loyalty.
For me, it is a question of evaluating one's travel needs and making the best of what there is. Sometimes employers don't give you much option over choice of carrier: one of my employers' principal sponsors this year is Air France.