IMHO, C++ is not exactly an ideal language for someone starting out with programming. Starting out with Python would be more like it. Once you start getting a hang of how things work, jumping on to C/C++ would be more rewarding. Not to mention Python makes it easier for one to develop GUI applications -- easier than C++.
The romantic image of an über-programmer is someone who fires up Emacs, types like a machine gun, and delivers a flawless final product from scratch. A more accurate image would be someone who stares quietly into space for a few minutes and then says “Hmm. I think I’ve seen something like this before.” - John D