Keep playing! Speaking personally, these types of games, were never my forte nor did I ever have an interest in playing them but then BG3 became the exception to the rule. 

It becomes so natural the more you explore. But the game also heavily rewards your curiosity. No prior lore rules or knowledge really needed IMO.

had a similar experience, and it clicked after ~10 hours or so

This is the best game ever.

The most simple experience comes from playing half orc barbarian
if you want to keep your first play through pretty straightforward go for that.

I would recommend you watch some videos on how to play the game. 
And it also helps to start a whatsappgroup with friends who are also playing.

Searchcaster