[mmetzger]

Much like an approach to learning software, I'd say pick a project that you'd like to control in some fashion. Could be something like:

- Turn on a desklamp when I enter the room

- Remotely open my garage door without modifying the hardware

- Tell me the status of the sprinkler system

One good place to get ideas is look at a product that does something interesting, but you want it to do more. Examples from my own current project list:

- LED strips with a remote control that give the option of 16 colors. Modifying said controller to give me more colors (as the LEDs are RGB LEDs)

- Hacking a wireless power socket to not need the remote but be computer controlled.

If nothing else, pick up a copy of Make magazine and have fun...