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The best time to learn a new language is now. If mastering Spanish or picking up Mandarin has always been something that you have longed to do—then there is really a no better time to start than now.
Our brains are continually being molded to take on new skills and absorb new information. So even if you are well into adulthood, your brain is more than capable of helping you master a foreign language.
Many people have done so before you and proven it is possible. In fact, we have rounded up the top tips from others who have mastered a new language so that you can get the confidence to do so too. Soon, you will be able to build the momentum to master multiple languages, avoid certain awkward situations, and know what the pendejo meaning is.
To help you get ready to learn a new language, check out this expert advice.
1. Find Your Motivation
First, you have to actually want to learn a new language. If you do not have that motivation, you will not be able to continually get yourself disciplined enough to be consistent. For example, if you are dating someone from France, then learning French is a great motivation and easy to commit to. But if you do not have another person holding you accountable, find something within you to spark that drive. For example, reward yourself with a trip to a destination that speaks that language once you become proficient enough in it.
2. Get a Practice Buddy
The second way to really help encourage you to get started and keep going is to find a partner to practice with. You can find someone who has already mastered the language to practice on with and they can provide you with feedback or critique. Or, you can get a partner who is on the same level as you. You both will be on an even playing field so there is not as much feeling of embarrassment when you mess up.
3. Practice On Yourself
If you are resisting trying to learn a foreign language because you are nervous that you will become embarrassed by messing up, then try simply practicing yourself. It may sound silly, but it allows you the time and space to keep practicing, mess up and master the fundamentals until you are ready to progress. It will also help build your confidence so that when you do try to speak with someone else, you will have practiced enough to the point that you can do it.
4. Make Goals
Another important way to get started and progress is to make goals and keep it achievable. If you set out trying to become a fluent speaker of a language, the pressure could prevent you from progressing as quickly as you’d like to. The whole point of learning a new language is to use it. So set simple goals that are relevant and achievable. Be willing to mess up in front of people and learn as you go.
5. Enjoy the Process
Learning a new language is a creative experience that you should enjoy every second. You do not simply have to drown yourself in a million different textbooks to practice learning a new language. You can make it really fun by trying to write a song or poem in a foreign language or even write comics in a foreign language. Not only will it spark some creativity within you, but it will equally help you enjoy the learning process and tap into the creative part of your brain.
6. Have a Child-Like Mindset
One of the biggest reasons that children are able to learn new skills like a second language so quickly is because they are willing to make mistakes and have a carefree attitude about it. They do not feel the preconceived notions of needing to be perfect in a foreign language. This is what allows them to absorb more information and learn from their mistakes. If adults were able to take that same approach, they will likely see tremendous growth in their language skills.
7. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
One of the greatest ways to learn a new language is to literally be thrown head first into doing so. This means not only being willing to make mistakes but also putting yourself in situations where you have no other option than to actually figure it out on your own. Try o make a joke with a stranger. Go to an event where they only speak that language. Force yourself to order food in that language. The more out of your comfort zone you get, the more you are going to progress.
Conclusion
With so many great ways to get started learning a new language, why wait any longer?