There is a ton of experience in the epic levels. I can go from 20-28 three times without repeating hardly anything. Then I usually heroic TR and reset everything. You do not have to be "most people". You can actually play the game instead of grind through it.
Good for you... I'm sorry it took you 10 years to figure this out. I hope you don't regret the move. You could have changed your playstyle without destroying the character and his gear.I'm going to create a level one character who can do quests without being bothered about rewards; playing the game is reward enough.
Good luck to you.