It may be months or years, but such material will eventually be useful to you as a writer. Writer's Market listings. Back issues of magazines. If you've come to the conclusion that getting published isn't easy and find this discouraging, stroll through your local bookstore or library. You'll find ample evidence that it's not impossible.
Readers find good books inspiring.
Writers find bad books inspiring, since they provide proof positive that they can write publishable material. Every successful writer started where you are now, and few found the writing process easy. It is also true that some people win millions of dollars in lotteries. It's easier to make it on talent and persistence. You can save yourself time and trouble by searching a magazine's annual indices or The Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature for topics you wish to query on.