| Sounds like you need to have the neck truss rod adjusted. It sounds like it needs to be tighter, to bring the strings down to the fretboard. But there are other adjustments that may need to balance out the string "action" you want. First, decide on what strings you want to use, then take your bass to a music store and tell them you want a "setup" and "intonation" on your bass with new "xxxxx" strings. Then continue to use those strings.
Figure out by playing other basses in the store what action you like. Low, medium, medium low, etc.
Ok, when you stand up, even with lower action, you may need the bass to be higher so you can use your pinky better, and/or, you may need to change how you position your fretting hand. I realize that this may not seem cool to you, but when I stand and use a strap, my bass is at the exact same position as when I am sitting. When my fretting hand is relaxed and ready to play on the fretboard, the places were each finger is attached to the hand are equal distant from the G string. My finger tips are all near the strings. I see many bass players who point their pinky out away from the neck and then try to stretch it to the fretboard. That is a weak and slow position. Your tone and speed will suffer.
tim99. | 
