12 Awesome Reasons to Learn a Second Language
How many languages do you speak? One? Four perhaps?
6 minute read
Learning a foreign language is a process, sometimes very long and also quite challenging.
On our way to get fluency, there comes a moment when we can’t progress and we stay there wondering why on Earth we’ve lost so many hours and days learning?
Yes, it can be hard to overcome the feeling of stagnation.
Let us tell you one thing: that’s just a phase and it will pass.
But, just in case, we will show you some things that can help you get and stay motivated to learn a language and get to the final point called fluent proficiency level.
You can thank us later because now we’ll get started.
7 Valuable Tips to Get a Motivation to Learn a Language
If you are in that phase when you lose the inspiration to learn the language, the following 7 valuable tips will help you regain the motivation to learn the language.
Set Up a Learning Plan
One thing that can make you lose motivation to learn a language is to constantly have to worry about how you'll learn the language or to organize yourself. It is exhausting and you can get bored quickly that way.
So, before you even start learning a language, you should make a learning plan. How you will learn some difficult parts of the language or how often you will practice are only some of the plans.
This way, every time you sit down to study, you'll know right away which things to focus on and not think about what to start studying.
Use What You Already Know
Learning new things is good and it makes you progress. But sometimes it can be the opposite. When you constantly learn something new and do not use it, there's no point.
Instead, try using things you have already learned.
It also concerns language learning materials.
In the ocean of language learning resources, you are constantly exposed to new materials.
Don't use the new ones on and on again. It will make you burn out and you can have a feeling that you don't progress.
If you write a diary in your target language, for example, don't do that for three days and then stop and get to something else. Keep doing what you're doing.
Immerse Yourself In The Language
Even though this can be quite demanding, an immersive approach is one of the most efficient ways not only to practice language but also to give you the wind in the back.
Whether you decide to spend some time in the country where your target language is spoken or communicate with native speakers online, the idea of using the language can make you feel inspired to still progress.
And if you make a mistake, don't get discouraged. Look at that as one more chance to learn correctly.
Make Learning Fun
Who said that language learning has to be boring?
Today, there are so many amusing ways of learning a language that you can only have to choose.
Let's say you are a Japanese language learner. Try practicing the pronunciation with Japanese songs. And not only the pronunciation but this way, you will improve your vocabulary and listening skills, too.
Or watching French movies, for example. If you are a French student and you want to find some entertaining way to practice language skills, watching movies and shows is a great way to relax and have fun but also to practice the language.
Then, there are different games you can play but that improve your language skills. Whether you want to improve vocabulary with games or perhaps to polish your grammar by playing grammar games, one thing is for sure. You won't get bored.
Combine Learning Techniques
Besides making language learning fun, you also have to make sure that all these ways are effective as well.
Combining different learning techniques not only will help you practice different language skills but also stay motivated and inspired to continue studying.
So, apart from watching movies and playing games, you can use podcasts to polish your listening skills, practice speaking skills with Justlearn tutors, read blogs and books. The list can be long and it depends on your interests and creativity.
Don't Forget The Reason You Learn The Language
Many say that there is no better way to stay and keep being motivated in learning a language if you, occasionally, recall why you've started learning the language in the first place.
Is it because I wanted a job promotion?
Or the reason is traveling to the country where the language is spoken and communication with locals?
Perhaps love was the main reason you've started learning the language?
Remembering why you started learning particularly that language will make you feel inspired and give you more energy to continue studying and keep moving forward.
Take a Break
Takings a break from learning and all the learning challenges that come with it isn't something you should be ashamed of
In every student's learning path, there comes the time when he needs a break from language learning. And that’s alright.
When you feel you really can't learn new things, even practice the already learned ones, or when you feel out of blue, take books and other resources aside and do other things.
After several days, try to sit down and read some easy articles in your target language. Or find some light movie to watch. The energy you will have is going to be different. In other words, you will be prepared to continue where you stopped.
Final Thoughts
Learning a language isn't a thing that can happen overnight. Well, maybe if you live in Harry Potter's world and have a wand, but we doubt that. If you are a muggle like we are, you have to give your effort to achieve the level of proficiency.
In that journey, you may lose interest and motivation. Besides, some inspirational quotes, we hope that these tips are enough to help you get back on track.
