I have no experience in programming, nor do I have delusions about becoming an elite programmer. I just would like to learn enough to have a better filter to notice/process ideas as mentioned here: http://www.paulgraham.com/startupideas.html

I have decided to commit to learn programming at a base level, enough to possibly make prototypes/potential to find co-founder.

I left a previous job that paid well for many years because 1.I wasn't talented and 2.I did not see my life as being fulfilled down that path.

A couple points for your consideration

1. I have over 1mm liquid, and I have no debt, don't own a house or car. This may be tacky to mention, but since I am anonymous, I just wanted to put it out there out of desperation in hopes someone can give me some solution (wishful thinking).

2. No one depends on me, I have as many hours as there are in a day to work on this.

I started doing some html work on code academy, it seemed a bit slow and thorough for what I'm trying to do. I looked at Zed Shaw's courses, and they seem like a good idea, but I'm not sure if it's overkill (or underkill?) for what my goals are.

If any of this makes sense, you would SIGNIFICANTLY help me by giving me guidance to help achieve my goal. I don't want to waste time learning things that I really won't need to know (near term).

I have searched much, but not knowing what I need to know, it is hard to discern what is and isn't necessary. (In terms of the base goal).

Maybe I am not cut out to be a founder. But I do know that reading pg's essays make my mind run wild, and I find instant inspiration and excitement in his writings. I have spent 276 days trying to figure out something else, and nothing is jumping out at me. So it's about time to make some sort of a commitment. For better or for worse.