How exactly are you going to gain by going back to collecting?
It makes no sense to me at all.
You say that for the last 6 - 7 years you have relied on customers to send payment, you now have around 1k outstanding on a regular basis, if you have managed till now then whats the problem? you run your business and personal life from your income.
If you start to collect, then for a short while your "takings" will increase but NOT your turnover or profits.
After a few months you will be bringing in exactly the same each month as you are now only YOUR workload will have increased.
It makes no sensai