Watch Your Language Blog

Be patient

Yes, it's true, learning a language does take time. But why does that have to be a bad thing? As is often said, most things that are really worthwhile take time and effort, and as a result are usually much more satisfying once completed. Plus, if you recognize that fact from the beginning, and are patient while you study, it is much more likely you will achieve your language learning goals.

So don't worry if you don't pick up everything immediately. The language you are learning might be confusing and overwhelming at first, especially if this is the first time you're studying a second language. However, don't let this get you frustrated.

Instead, move at your own pace. If you don't understand something, or if you feel a little unclear about, for example, a grammar point you just learned, go back and review. Read a phrase, sentence, or dialogue several times if you need to. Don't just keep moving ahead. Make sure you understand before moving on.

Also, try to begin your studies by thinking realistically about how much time you're willing to commit to the language, and then adjust your expectations accordingly. If you only want to commit to an hour or two of solid work a week for just a few months, keep in mind that you'll most likely end up with a good knowledge of some basic vocabulary, expressions, and probably introductory dialogue, but you won't be conversational. And you won't be speaking the new language like your native language.

If you go in with realistic expectations, clear goals, and an appropriate pace of study, you'll have a much better chance of staying with your studies, getting satisfaction out of what you've achieved, and, most importantly, learning the language.

Tags: newsletter, pace of study, tips
April 16, 2009