Yes, there is a learning curve. But I found out it is not nearly as steep as people make it out to be.
Do what I did. Take an old computer and install a Linux distro on it. Most of these Linux distros work great on older hardware, btw. Then set aside a little time each day or each week to familiarize yourself with Linux. Check out a Linux book from your local library and work your way through it. When you get the basics down, try different distros. Until you find one you really like (mine is PCLinuxOS).
I hardly ever use my Windows computer anymore. And I certainly don’t miss Windows at all.
What’s a distro? What’s a kernel vs an OS? Even the language is different and that is no small thing unless the subject at hand is either your job or your hobby.
Since I’m in IT and use Windows, and windows works fine at home, I don’t really know why I would use Linux. Originally my motivation was to speed up my computers, but that is no longer an issue so my motivation evaporated, especially when I started encountering problems with Open Office.
And getting my wife to use it was like pulling teeth.
Until I find a compelling reason to switch from what I am currently doing, I’ve decided to move on.