Amna Hamid
Learning is always a fun process, be it a new skill, a new hobby, or a new degree at the local university. It is also the most practical way of making use of your free time. The most prosperous people are those who strive to learn something new every day, be it a new language or new art. People who enjoy traveling know how uncomfortable it can get if you’re not able to understand anything, especially if it is something urgent.
Why Should You Learn a New Language?
Since we live in a multilingual world full of diverse cultures and customs, it is essential to be able to connect with as many people as possible to communicate. Hence, knowing how to speak and understand more than one language is very advantageous. It will help you grow in your career, boost your memory, enhance your concentration levels and it will also develop your comprehension of the languages you already communicate in. You will be able to multitask more comfortably. You will also be able to participate in engaging activities specific to the new language that you have learned.
How to Learn a New Language?
Whether you learn a new language sitting at home via websites or apps or whether you opt for taking classes at a language center nearby, the process is time-taking. It requires plenty of patience, repetition, and practice to gain command. Some languages are easy to grasp while others are complex.
If you ask me, I would suggest that you download a free language app first and begin with the very basic words and phrases on your own. Build your vocabulary slowly and keep making notes. Dig out an old diary and start writing new words and phrases in it. Writing yourself helps memorize new vocabulary. Don’t feel intimidated if it looks difficult, slow and steady wins the race!
Besides reading new words, you must also learn how to pronounce them correctly. Listen to native speakers and then say those words aloud to yourself, standing in front of a mirror daily. This practice will surely give you a lot of confidence. You can even watch foreign TV shows and movies with subtitles. Music holds big potential for your learning process because it’s catchy. You can start by listening to your favorite song’s lyrics and repeating them. Activity books, podcasts, and short conversations with friends or classmates can be immensely helpful in learning as well.
Links to Some Useful Apps
Tips for New Learners
If you want to retain all the information you have memorized, you will have to be highly consistent. Big gaps between lessons and practicals are discouraged. Spend at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, on learning and practicing, either in a group or on your own.
Don’t forget to review every lesson individually and test yourself honestly. This way you’ll enjoy more progress and you won’t ever forget all that you’ve learned. Don’t feel bad if your progress is slow or if you’re making a lot of errors, that’s part of the package. Celebrate your successes to encourage yourself and the people around you. Take it easy and enjoy every second while it lasts. This is the best and easiest way to learn a new language.
