I’d give the rigid post a shot for a few months. Most people don’t “need” droppers unless they are trying to set PRs on rowdy trails. Sure it’s nice to have, but like a lot of features, it can also become a crutch that keeps you from advancing your skills. The fastest dudes in my area ride rigid bikes with rigid posts. They set KOMs on both climbs and descents. My view is invest in skill courses first and components later after you find out what components are truly limiting you. If you don’t explore the ceiling in your riding skills with existing components, then you just end up throwing parts at the problem. And more parts mean more hassle and expense.