We both hope that I am right, since I'm following my self directions... ;-)
Still, rmartine is right: start with something you can understand. Don't drop completely the idea to start a project on your own, but remember to make it free: SourceForge is worth a try.
If you want a challenge, for example, try to have that "File Transfer" for ICQ working in Gaim!! (
http://gaim.sourceforge.net/)
Good luck, and remember: the community is always here to help you!