start with simple designs that do not have to fit precisely and woven fabric (stretchy is harder to manage for newbies) . this means skirts or pants with elastic waistbands, tops that are loose like tunics or woven tanks. Or if you are into home stuff, start with pillows, placemats, table runners etc.

Then buy a very basic book like Readers Digest Guide to sewing or Vogue sewing.

Then move on to zippers, buttonholes bindings etc. later

fitting is the hardest thing to do and unless its just a small waist or hem adjustment, save that as an advenced skill. Make sense? And once you come to love sewing, it can be with you forever.

Sewing is a wonderful experience, don't get discouraged, I have sewn since I was about 7-8 yrs old. a long time ago
you need to enjoy the process and not be too critical of what you do, it is only fabric, it can make great dust cloths or a great garment, below is a link to sew-whats-new
I web site that has lots of things, there is a lady who gives free lessons online to new sewers, they are worth the time to go through, check it out, as you learn you always have GW forum to help, or lend an ear, happy sewing rene

Here is a link that might be useful: sewing lessons

I think sewing is like anything else--the more you do, the better you get at it. The advice you've been given is good. Even though I've sewn for a number of years, I still use my reference books from time to time. Remember the machine does the sewing and you just need to guide it so relax and enjoy it and start with something simple with straight seams.

Do some small projects....a pillowcase...straight seams there...even the hem which is turning over the raw edge and sewing the folded part to the main body....just follow a commercial pillowcase to see what to do. Hem a square of fabric for a table cloth....not a circular one unless you can get the girls at the fabric store to cut it for you...with the thought that hemming a circle and also be a bit tricky. No one's first project is ever l00% so don't be over judgemental. Relax and have fun. Each seam you stitch or remove is a lesson in itself. Patience is what you need in abundance....sew in short sprints so the task is not so daunting. But by all means...begin the adventure and enjoy it.

You can sew! You don't even need to start with a real project. Just get some fabric and practice sewing. Then start with simple projects. Do you know anyone else who sews who could spend a little time with you? It would be easier for you that way, and fun too.

Gee, back in the old days, they used to teach sewing in high school, but not now in most places.

Are there beginner classes in your area? If so, take a few of those. Also, there's all kinds of "sewing". You can sew garments, put your own embellishments on store-bought clothes, make home decor stuff, quilts, lots of things. Just don't expect to know how to do it all instantly. Doing something one time doesn't make an expert. We all practice and it's definitely a process of learning. Start with the basics and practice practice practice. I've sewn for ages, and still get out my how-to book for things I haven't done in ages, or ever. It's really fun though, just remember to enjoy the process as much as the final output.