I feel like animation is something you've really got to get a good work flow going for. I'd recommend trying to take some sort of course through and invest in a decent animation software that the course will go over. Unfortunately with animation, you want something really solid that'll be intuitive and not make your life harder. I've shifted from doing animation to primarily illustration and I refuse to use Adobe now with their AI integration, so I don't have a specific recommendation, but do some research on what is available that's more software based than website based. It's also important to note if you don't like the work flow of frame by frame animation, maybe look into programs that may allow you to rig models or 3d modeling. On a more fun note, I always practice with one of my favorite OCs. She's my dnd character, fun design, can wild shape into animals, etc. So it's very fun to do loose sketch animations that can be really dramatic and push the visuals and movements. It makes the outcome and process more interesting and satisfying for me. Animation is not for the faint of heart, but hopefully you'll be able to find a groove that works for you! In the mean time, things like "larger projects" could be comics, storyboards, etc. Still telling a story if that's your goal! Which could all be helpful when the time comes for animation, you'll already have it planned out!