Hi,
I just spent an hour writing a really long and detailed reply...
then i accidentally deleted it :/
So, here are the highlights!
Go to university to study physics, it's the best way.
If you can't do that.
Buy or download these books
For inspiration
"The Character of Physical Law" Feynman
"The Feynman Lectures on Physics" Feynman
These are infinitely better than any popular science books. This guy was one of the best physics
minds of the 20th century, and also one of the best teachers.
For maths
"Engineering Mathematics" K A Stroud
"Advanced Engineering Mathematics" K A Stroud
Imho, the best maths books for undergraduate physics (I base by maths lessons on these books, but don't tell anyone
)
Get yourself an introductory undergraduate physics book, there are many, and they are usually called things like "Physics
for Scientists and Engineers" or something like that.
Many universities offer course content on-line for free! Check out MIT and Stanford. Also iTunes U. These are actual
videos of the lecture courses and the assignments/tests to download.
The most important thing is to do the exercises in the books. You must practice and practice to really understand. This
is really important. If you don't do this, you will only "think" you understand.
Read books, watch lectures, WORK THOUGH THE PROBLEMS, and ask lots of questions.
I didn't have time to type the whole thing again. PM me if you want any more help.