How do you actually break into professional photography?

Hey everyone,
I’m looking for some realistic advice on the business side of photography. I’ve been practicing, learning the technical elements, and working on my composition every day. Up until now, it has just been a hobby, but I'm looking to finally try it out professionally.
Recently, I covered a small-scale event at my institute, which gave me a taste of shooting live environments, and now I want to scale up.
For those of you who actively make money shooting concerts, festivals, nightlife, or corporate events, how did you get your foot in the door? Specifically:
• How did you transition from shooting small, free local events to getting your first actual paying clients?
I'd love to hear your stories or any strategies you'd recommend to someone starting from scratch.
TIA!