This is exactly what I was going to say. Maya is so vast that you have to plant your flag somewhere and expand out from that point. Every project needs a model to start-- if for no other reason than to support the shader (catch light, cast shodows, etc.). Start with the modeling tools and when you have a play-room filled with props you can begin to differentiate their looks (with shaders). Think about a unified set of models (like lures in a tackle box or kitchen appliances) to test you mettle on.