Do you really need to learn a new language?
Some people take to language learning like a passing fancy – something fun to do, similar to learning to skateboard or tie knots like a sailor. Unfortunately, passing fancies are rarely enough to encourage people to truly stick to language acquisition, even with the best language learning software in their corner. What happens, instead, is they grow bored and give it up. When they return later, say after a year, they end up having to start from scratch. Time wasted.
We tell all language learners to have an important reason for learning, one that will help them push through the disillusionment that comes with putting in the effort at trying to be good at something and finding little success. That reason will help you persevere and keep plugging away, even when you find your results to be middling (very common after the early lessons).
What are examples of good reasons for learning a language?
1. If you’re relocating to a foreign country, then you’ll have to learn the language. Not doing so will make the move extremely difficult.
2. If you need it for career advancement, then you probably have a good reason to study. Unless you’re willing to languish at the same station in life for years on end, you will push yourself.
3. If you regularly interact with foreign speakers for business purposes. The world is a global market and if you’ve got clients whose native language is different than yours, learning to communicate in their vernacular should help strengthen your bond.
There are many reasons you can find for motivating yourself. The important thing is to discover one that truly matters to you.
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