Taking time to listen to different speakers over the years is what helped me the most to get as close as I could afford within reason - and truly getting started.
From there, once I had a small batch of different speakers I liked, then re-started down the amplifier path. This helped gain a sense of direction towards what I preferred and could lean into more. Visiting with locals and their preferences saves time to learn more about what you might like more or less.
Going to audio shows helped some, and yet it actually alienated me from ultra expensive speakers I would not splurge on. Started building my own speakers more seriously again with help from various parts source providers. Got help from a few folks a lot better at crossovers than I could do as I bought higher $ parts.
What I learned fairly early on is my preference to the type of sound I like the most was not always the same as friends and colleagues (and local audiophiles) and how this can vary by individual, greatly. Learned fast what I don’t like, lol.
Another helpful tip was driving up to 5 hours away, getting up early, and going to check out audio shops with a completely different spin as to what they offered for speakers and amps compared to more local dealers. Eventually got hooked in with people who do a lot of gear mods and serious upgrades, this was the game changer for me and my own gear.
While visiting and comparing to other systems, do bring your music with you to help compare more efficiently and effectively. Dream system no, closer than I started with, absolutely. Be sure to listen and enjoy the music along the way. Have fun.