Getting started with Spanish is no simple undertaking - if you really want to learn, you need to invest some time in it. Here are some suggestions for getting off on the right foot.

1. Start by taking a class. You can do this at your local community college, adult education center, or a Spanish immersion school.
2. Find out if there is a Spanish cultural center in your community. They're sure to offer Spanish classes as well as parties and other activities where you can meet other Spanish-speakers and practice your Spanish. 
3. Work on the basic vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and verb lessons in my special Spanish for Beginners section.
4. Invest in some language tapes and listen to spoken Spanish every day. The more you listen, the easier it will be for you to develop your accent and get used to speaking Spanish.
5. Watch some Spanish movies and/or listen to audio. Even though they may be difficult to understand, they'll help you get used to the rhythms of Spanish speech. Also, while reading the English subtitles in movies, your mind will unconsciously work on decoding the Spanish (well, that's what my high school teacher told me anyway).  ;-)
6. Practice speaking as much as possible by working on some pronunciation lessons.
7. Use the forum to ask questions and exchange messages with other Spanish speakers.
8. Drop in the chat room - if you're not ready to participate, you can just watch the conversation. All levels are welcome.
9. Enjoy yourself - learning doesn't have to be a chore. Take a look at the fun for kids resources.
10. If at all possible, spend some time in a Spanish-speaking country - that is the absolute best way to learn.

Above all, practice as much as possible. Memorizing verb conjugations and lists of vocabulary does you no good if you're afraid to speak to another person.

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