Most importantly, code something in c++! Being "book-smart" with nothing to show for it is pretty much useless. A simple Snake or Tetris clone in SDL is a super rewarding first project, or you could give Advent of Code a go as it lets you solve a lot of cool puzzles that fit in a couple of hours at worst.
As for books, I can recommend Effective Modern C++ by Scott Meyers. CppCast is a great podcast that can get you up to speed on the C++ ecosystem.
sptth|3 years ago