I like the suggestions here- will pursue Pleco, thanks.
I agree, it's mostly about how you approach it. It's like working out, one has to find a learning method that is sustainable- no use working in a way that you hate and then it drops off.
For ex, I often ask my Canto speaking friends to teach me words/phrases. Then I know the phrase what other speakers are using, and I also get extra motivation. They get a kick out of watching me try (usually laughing at me more than with) and I get a kick out of hearing them explain it.