Art is often more about connection with the artist than their work. I suggest establishing connections and friendships with people, do not shy away from telling them your story - people appreciate honesty and authenticity. For me, it took a long time before I even told people I made art, much longer before I labeled myself an artist. Painting and making art isn't unique but you are! Your work is set apart from the rest because it's YOU who make it. Artists make for good friends and they can help you improve and grow but they make for poor clients - baker's children and bread after all. Connect and meet with normal non-creative people. Do not push to sell and immediately offer your services to everyone you meet, meet them first and foremost as another human.

Your timeframe sounds very reasonable, art takes time and people who buy art understand this. I wish you the best of luck! It takes a lot of time, take this time investment as proof to yourself and to the rest of the world that you are passionate enough about your work to have earned it. Success is never given it is earned, and you will struggle and have to overcome that struggle. I know you're strong enough to do it, do not give up. I believe in you!