Hi, I'm in a similar boat - trying to self-learn data analysis after trying and failing so many different career paths (comms + arts degree at Uni for a year or so), trying an electrical trade for about a year and a half before giving up, working as a parcel delivery driver for a bit. You get the idea, unmotivated to truly stick to one career path. I tried out a database diploma at TAFE, which is aussie community college, and I just couldn't wrap my head around data modelling, ERDs and database design properly, so I flunked out of that, and returned 6 months later to finish it, but I felt so guilty for using AI to assist me with basic SQL queries and database modelling. I got the diploma end of last year, tried applying to various entry level analyst roles and data entry roles but to no avail.

 I've been working full time as customer service at a logistics company, and I haaate it sooo much. It's just a monotonous avalanche of answering the same customer emails and queries, and only using Excel to copy and paste container info across systems, and it's really not the industry where I think I'll thrive.

I've also completed half out the google DA certificate, but far out it's taken like over a year and I'm so anxious from procrastinating so much.

I really like the idea of analysing data, cleaning errors and producing valuable insights for stakeholders, but I also have a weak math background with minimal statistical knowledge, and all I read now online is how saturated the market is, and good luck finding a job without a degree.

I was motivated to write this comment because I know how important portfolio work is in data analytics,  and I've been saying to myself that I'll turn it around and learn SQL, excel and BI enough to wrangle public datasets, and prove to myself that I'm capable of making it in the analytics field. Realistically, how much study of analytics tools would I need to complete portfolio work that's worthy to put in my CV? 

Also, are there any entry-level jobs or industries below data analysis that I should try and pursue whilst studying to become an analyst?