That’s nice of you! Programming skills are in high demand nowadays and the significant and long term benefits they can bring to your reasoning and overall intellectuality are astounding.

I am going to give you a step-by-step guide based on what I did when I was in your situation. There may be better ways to approach the situation.

First of all:

Do not choose a language now! Firstly, start by learning algorithms, computer logic, and how computers will read your programs and algorithms. In other words, take an Algorithms course or read (maybe a book if you want to learn it thoroughly) about them - a good recommendation that I would give you are books by the ‘Deitels’. Although they are long books, you will learn fundamental concepts within it.

Secondly:

Now that you know algorithms, and how the logic behind programming works, figure out if you have a problem you would like to solve. Programming is about solving people’s problems. So, for example: you would like to create a e-commerce to your cousin’s store. Choose a programming language that will enable you to do that.

Maybe your idea will need more than one programming language. Consider inviting some friends, or learning each required language step-by-step. Finding a problem you would like to solve will give you a goal and keep you motivated throughout this time-consuming journey of programming.

However, if you do not have an idea, or a problem you would like to solve, pick a famous language (Java, Python, C, PHP, etc). What do I mean by famous language? I mean the type of language that you will find many resources on the internet in which you can rely on.

Thirdly:

Keep practicing. Programming skills are like any other. If you practice, you’ll do well even if you find it difficult and complex.

Last tip:

Do not feel as you had to memorize syntax or ready algorithms. About the syntax: you will automatically memorize them as you practice. About algorithms: understand and learn them. It is much funnier and more productive.

I hope that answer helps you. Let me know if you any further doubts.