Clip in - Once, I got used to getting in and out - they are the best for mtn biking. I can't ride a mtn bike with platforms. Oh, my god, that would scare me!

Once you get used to clipping in, it helps your bike handling, you can pull up, it helps when you need to get some air, etc.

Get rid of the platforms, ride easy trails for a while, practicing clipping in and out a lot, you need to be able to clip in and out on both sides. If you give it a chance, I guarantee you will like it better.