Self Tacking Jibs do not have to be used that way. You can still sheet out a bit to open the slot. Another thing that we sometimes do in big wind and swells is to hold it backwinded for a second or two. You can put as much work into a self tacking jib as you put into any other. The other side of the coin is the convenience when you are taking someone completey new on the boat. When you are only out for a pleasure sail and not practicing your tacking skills it can be quite refreshing.

Work as hard as you think you need to.
Later,
Dan