It sounds like you are doing great in helping companies with their problems and make them great again. Like, being a superhero who spot a problem and then comes up with an outright solutions. And, if I am not mistaken, when you said that you want to get back again to where you were, it is sound to me like you want to level up in the game! But, I also know what you mean about settling for being content to fast.
And those big wins you have mention, like about getting 20% to cover the loss of income, it's smart to take. I totally understand about wanting to get more jobs without it being like, begging. It is likely when you want to ask a friend to play but you don't wanting to seems like too desperate. Meanwhile, the bar thing? LOL, that's kinda funny.
It is a bummer that some companies can't hire you right now, even if you are really helpful. Again, you are right, being patient and hard work is way better than getting stressed. I hope you get lots and lots and lots of wins soon, and that ticking clock will shut!