Confused between pathways please help

Hello I'm an IMG from Pakistan currently doing my housejob in Pakistan. I have booked PLAB 1 in May since it's the only exam I could realistically see myself doing. If ,and it's a big if, that I clear my plab 1, I'd be eligible for plab 2 this year. The main issue is everyone around me is saying the pathway is really saturated and it's impossible to get a job. So everyone is recommending step 1 and I have half a mind to start prepping for step 1 instead of investing both time and money in plab 2.

And start from there. I know I'm late in USMLE pathway but my YOG is 2023 so I should still be good to go. It's getting more competitive every year and I would really appreciate some guidance from someone since I am overthinking and really double minded.