Hi, I don't remember any LDs from childhood except one I think and none when I was in my 20s..I'm not really sure... You are right that it is a lengthy process because it's very subjective..what works for me may not work for you so it's alot of testing. I've been doing it for more than 4 years but I think it's the best 4 years of my life doing something great. Now I'm working on a light cue similar to DreamMask idea but I'm not implying that regular tech don't work and using cues has it's problems and pitfalls also. The best for new LDers I'd suggest using day residue or what many would call MILD. I'm sure there's a light switch in your home...first you have to 'preset' what normal is. Before doing any RC you have to assume you are NOT DREAMING but you assume this only once for the 'preset' so of course when you are NOT DREAMING the lights will work normally and then you certify this state of working condition of the light by doing the RC eg..finger counting, watch check and it show's you are not. After you are sure what normal is...you can proceed to do the light check anytime but also do an RC to confirm after the check because if you don't you also won't in the dream even if the lights fail. Then comes MILD...to trigger the day residue about RCing with the light switch..it's up to you how to MILD but for me I use repetition of visual items until I fall asleep. Hope this helps your chances....

IMJ