I really enjoy learning new languages! Currently (for 22 months) I have been working on Modern Hebrew. In fact, this weekend I had set aside to review ALL the lessons (they're on CD) up to where I stopped (when my service dog Caleb was diagnosed with lymphoma 5 weeks ago.)

I've studied many languages, of course having learned my native English very well helped me understand how other languages are differently structured. Once you have your native language well in hand, it's easier to add a language and then each language after that it's even easier to learn a new one! So with that said, make sure you are proficient in (I am assuming) English first. Review grammar and spelling or any area where you are weak--it will help honest.

I've used different methods to learn and have also learned what works best for me. You'll need to figure this out for yourself as well. If you are a visual person, then adding pictures will be good. A person learns best by immersion--so if you can do audible and visual and repetition verbally it will give strength to what you do learn. (So you might want to put the words to common things around your home written on stickeys etc. )

I learned International Morse Code the easiest by first memorizing the alphabet and then focussing on favorite sentences (such as "I love you" was my first!)

For Cherokee, since it's syllabary, visual study was first, then learning the combinations of sounds etc.

For Spanish, well, I learned that by rote in school, pure reading and repetition UGH for me... and while I was fluent after it finally "clicked" one day, I lost fluency due to the brain trauma. (This is why I keep studying language, hoping that a new language will help the brain reconnect to the Spanish?)

Hebrew is totally different for me than Spanish and French.. I love it and through studying it (CDs and just now beginning to write and read it) I AM beginning to remember Spanish words as well...so cool!

I think I rambled. Sorry.

What I would suggest is that if you find the language you picked is too hard, try a different one --- and make it fun! Use it too--- as you drive / ride think about something in that language as you see it---or in your mind describe someone in the elevator using words you've just learned.

Good wishes! Go for it! Research has shown that just JUST STUDYING a new language develops areas of the brain and keeps it healthy (you don't have to ever learn it!)