Learning a language is seen as a way to keep your mind sharp and brains working. So why are people so reluctant to learn a new language? Learning a language has challenges that are difficult to tackle if not done in a systematic way. Yes, every new skill requires a set of rules to be followed. The same goes for learning a language.
Like any task, the best way to tackle learning a new language is to break it down in smaller manageable steps. Set a timeline for achieving milestones.
What should these milestones be? Simple mastery of grammar, pronunciation, rules, etc can be seen as milestones. The best approach is to ask yourself what you want to achieve from your language learning experience. Complete mastery of the language, a skill level that will mean a more meaningful travel experience, etc. Clarity of purpose will keep you motivated.
The most recommended way of learning a language is by reading. Reading out loud to yourself will help you memorize some of the nuances of the language that are best felt. A book that you choose to read in a foreign language will force you to try and understand the plot and characters thereby, forcing quicker learning. Of course, pick an engaging book!
Learning vocabulary will be imperative to learn a language. So how do you undertake such a challenging and potentially boring task? One simple trick is to learn the foreign language counterparts of the words you often use in your native language when talking day-to-day.
Once you learn the language you will need to keep up the practice. With the internet, finding a buddy to practice the language with is not difficult. Of course, to get that sense of accomplishment, once you are fluent in the new language, you need to go to where that language is spoken.
There is no task that is insurmountable if a clear process and timeline are put around it.
So stay motivated and take one step at a time.
