Start asking questions in Stack Overflow. I wish I started doing this years ago. I used to be just a non participating reader for a long time. Once I got the taste of it, I ask questions frequently now. If you are stuck with an issue for over 2 hrs, ask in SO. There are so many knowledgeable people who will guide you to in the right path and save you hours/days! The best part is you'll get a response when you are back after coffee or max on the next day morning when I come to work. I've started trying the same thing in HN as well lately :) .