Most of us understand the benefits of studying a new language. It helps us communicate and socialize with others, we get to appreciate new cultures, improves our cognitive abilities, we can enhance our employment prospects, and we can even impress our friends and close ones. Studying a new language is not easy, this is because it requires a lot of time and dedication. However, there are many success stories of people who have successfully managed to learn and master new languages.
So, the question most of us may ask ourselves is, what does it take to learn Japanese or any other language and will I be successful?
Read on as we highlight some of the best practices by those who have managed to succeed in this tough yet exciting and rewarding journey of learning a foreign language.
1. Motivation
Whenever you want to learn or do something new, it helps to be highly motivated. Since learning a new language is a demanding undertaking, most of those who succeed are the ones who are highly motivated. You can think of motivation as the fuel that powers you from point A to B.
To stay motivated, you need to have a solid reason why you want to learn a foreign language. For example, you may want to learn a new language to increase your cognitive abilities or learn new ways of thinking. Having a concrete reason why you want to learn a foreign language will ensure you always keep your eye and mind focused on the end goal. This will also help you create your own motivation on those days you do not feel like putting in the effort and time needed to pursue your goals.
2. Time
Learning a new language will require you to put in a considerable amount of time. Since there are no instant rewards, many shy away from trying to study a new language since they do not have the required time available. However, if you are motivated and willing to learn a new language, you can always find the time. If you can slot anywhere between 10-15 minutes a day, it is enough to kickstart your journey in learning a new language. Furthermore, you can also use any downtime you may have to improve your new skills.
3. Practice
You will see great progress when you perform the regular practice of the skills you learn. Practicing regularly will result in rapid progress. For example, you may want to incorporate the phrases you learn in your everyday conversations or even join social media networks where you can socialize and communicate with others using your target language.
4. Overcome your psychological barriers
One of the greatest barriers when it comes to studying or trying something new comes from within. Many new learners have this mental block that makes them fear making mistakes and thus prevents them from trying something new. The lack of confidence and shyness means many do not take the first step in the rewarding journey of learning a new language.
Those who step up in confidence and are not afraid of failing end up succeeding and reaping the sweet rewards of learning a foreign language.
