I have always hunted from the ground (which partially explains my tough luck), as I hunt public lands. I do enjoy being able to move around vs having to sit in a blind or stand all day.
I have nothing against ground hunting but maybe you should try a stand HLL. You are kinda defining insanity from what you have told us. Or take a successful ground Hunter with you sometime and have them critic your style.
Good idea on going out with a friend! I know a fella who is a successful bowhunter and I'll ask him for advice on my technique.