Conversion to the gospel normally does not come all at once but comes in stages until one becomes, at heart, a new person.
Several instructive points come from the Book of Mormon prophet Alma's conversion:
He had a vivid awareness and remorse for past sins; he remembered his father's teachings — the promise of atonement for sin through Jesus Christ; he personally pleaded in supplication for his soul; the healing of his soul was a complete, cleansing experience, both to the mind and the heart.
Will the Lord do for others what he did for Alma?
Quoting C.S. Lewis, "God has infinite attention to spare for each of us. He does not have to deal with us in the mass. You are as much alone with him as if you were the only being he had ever created. When Christ died, he died for you individually just as much as if you had been the only man (or woman) in the world."
The blessings and promises of conversion come through baptism, confirmation and priesthood and temple ordinances. The fruits of conversion grow and develop in one's life by continued repentance, obedience and faithful keeping of covenants.
"As conversion matures and is sustained through the workings of the Holy Ghost, peace and healing come to the soul."
Through total conversion people can truly come to personally know and feel the character and greatness of God. "It is the means whereby we become not only servants of the Lord but his friends as well."