Changing you Cassette and even your crank is the way to go. It's not much considering how much ya need to spend on a new house. Fit it in the budget with the new drapes and throw rugs. Long ago I went to a 34T Bailout gear on my freewheel and a compact crank with a 34T chain ring.
It's embarrassing to admit how much time I now spend in that Bailout gear for sure...
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No matter where you're at... There you are... Δf:=f(1/2)-f(-1/2)