All I would question is why you feel the need to measure the time it takes? I fear that you have some set template in your mind for how all this is supposed to occur in your life. It is a form of control. Are you a control freak? If so, what is it that you are afraid of?
I understand your question, and I'm not a control freak. It's hard to explain.. but I know I need God's help, yet I refuse to ask for it, and I spend days lost, stressed, etc. And sure enough, when I ask for God's help, my problems are resolved.