If you want to get into trading, but can't do it right now (for whatever reason), it doesn't mean you still can't learn.
Paper trading is an excellent way to see how you'll handle trading on a regular basis. If you think you have a method that works pretend to buy and sell and keep a portfolio of what you are doing. It helps you to visualize what is going on.
I'm surrounded by traders and technical analysis and I still don't trade. It isn't that I don't want to, its largely lack of time since I work during trading hours (for a company that provides technial analysis tools) I'm usually swamped with work and not able to track my own things! 
Direct learning is a fantastic way to learn more. I'd suggest several different subjects including fundamental analysis, technical analysis, as well as general trading. You might want to look into options as well, it's considered riskier but I also see it as having insurance policies.
Enjoy.
Tracey
