I have to (partly) disagree with most people here so far.
If e.g. your aim is to learn C++, the best way to learn the language thoroughly is to pick up a good book on C++ and read it from start to finish. This will put good programming practices into your subconscious; plus, you'll be familiar with the whole language. This is a prerequisite for being properly able to know what to look for in all that jungle in the first place once you start on your programming projects. So, at least in the case of C++ (and many of the other items you mentioned), my advice is: Read a book first. Then get busy with programming projects and revise that book and read other books as needed and as you go along.
Same goes with higher mathematics. Actually, the only way to study mathematics is to read books. There is simply no substitute for it. Of course a teacher would be good in case you get stuck.
Those who replied so far: Are you sure you are correct with this read-when-you-need-it thing? Actually it is a good idea in my opinion, but only after you have read at least one book on the subject. Within reason of course; there are exceptions. For instance with Apache, one need not read chapters about Virtual Hosts if one need not use those anyway. But in the case of C++ it's not like that; if you want to be a serious programmer.
Maybe it also boils down to that people have different learning styles.
I do agree however that 2 years is a bit long. How about taking 2 weeks vacation at a time per book/chapters? Then you'll keep your touch with the outside world and won't get isolated for too long.
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