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My comment will certainly not be helpful, but I think the best way to start is still to follow the most common advices you can find in a book or on the Internet. There are no shortcuts, especially when you're an adult that cannot afford to spend as much time as a younger (because of work, family, etc). To answer the question (the thing I wished I had known), I would advise you to start by learning anything that will help you for your whole career. It may be boring at first, but on the hindsight, it will be very rewarding. To be more specific:
- Learn to type on a keyboard. Really. I wish I had course about touch typing when I was younger (got to learn alone), and when I look around me, I notice many people still don't know how to type. - Learn Vi/Vim. Same as above. Vim is spread everywhere, is powerful and the principles behind it are strong. Vi exists for nearly 30 years, and won't disappear before a very long time. - Learn to work on a Linux/Unix/BSD environment. Even if you do not use it on a daily basis. - Start with a language well established (well, do not start with C++ though). Not because they are better, but they have stood the test of time, are likely to be still there for some years, and, more importantly, you'll find quality resources/books that will help you when you'll stumble on a difficulty. - Finish what you start. Already mentionned, but very important. - Practice, practice and practice. There is no shortcut. |