The "free upgrade" isn't going anywhere. Windows 10 will be usable for years to come. Don't let Microsoft's marketing pressure you into downgrading your workflow for a fresh coat of paint.
Windows 11 has turned the Start menu into an advertising vector. The "Recommended" section cannot be fully removed. It will show you: reasons not to upgrade to windows 11
The biggest barrier for most users is hardware. Windows 11 requires modern security chips that many older (and even some mid-range) PCs lack. The "free upgrade" isn't going anywhere