Yeah, some people like clipless, but if you don't there's no "need" to use them. I've switched back to flats.

If you want to put money into getting to almost clipless, buy pedals with pins, and Five-Ten bike shoes. They're so sticky you have to lift up your foot to adjust positioning. But you aren't actually clipped in.

You don't have to go to all that trouble, it's really not a huge deal for speed or efficiency. The major benefit of clipless is keeping your feet firmly attached to the pedals if you're all out wildly sprinting or going uphill all out in a pack. It's something racers run into regularly, but other riders don't.

Biggest thing on a road bike (after that it won't fall apart of course) is getting the size and fit right. Might be worth it for the OP to pay for a basic bike fitting to get size right if they're having issues with the bike being uncomfortable and not liking the brake position.