The benefits of being able to use one or several foreign languages are as clear as day. Languages boost your career prospects and enable you to navigate through any situation even if you’re not in your native country. The process of learning in itself has numerous advantages as well, even if you can’t boast any fluency yet. Brain activity connected to mastering a new language can improve your memory and lessen the risk of brain deterioration over the years. Sure, it takes some time, but wouldn’t you say that it’s absolutely worth it?
It is common knowledge that the best way to learn a language is to travel to the country it originates from. There are many cheap opportunities to do so, such as volunteering or working as an au pair. If you’re traveling for pleasure, you can still pick up some words and phrases that may come in handy, or you can make a point of trying to soak in as much knowledge as you possibly can. So, here is some wisdom to help you out in your quest for knowledge.
Immerse yourself in the surroundings
Avoid your native language (or any other languages that you do not mean to learn at that particular time), so you’ll be forced to use the target language. That means avoiding touristy destinations and visiting shops, markets, and pubs that are frequented by the locals. Change the language of your phone, apps, and social media to the target language. If you’re traveling in a pair or a group, try to practice together and avoid your mother tongue as much as you can. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Let go of your inhibitions
Of course, not all your inhibitions. However, try to overcome any shyness or insecurity and talk to strangers in any situation that gives you an excuse to do so. Ask about directions, the time, or recommendations for a good restaurant. Actively engage in conversation with the native speakers, so that you have no other option than to use the language. Even though speaking a language that you don’t really know may seem frightening and embarrassing, mistakes are a normal part of the learning process, and nobody will think any less of you if you make some.
Do a course
If you’re visiting the country for a longer period of time, it may be a good idea to try out a language course. Some people feel better if they learn in a structured and organized way, and it does make the process quicker and easier. Language schools can be found in any city in the world, so if you want to take advance English course in Sydney, New York, or London, why wouldn’t you?
Join an evening class
It can be anything, from ballroom dancing to chess club. The important thing is that you mingle, and that you keep in contact with the native speakers. Again, this will encourage you to use the language a lot, and eventually you will get much better in a short period of time. Obviously, there is the additional plus of doing something that you like and that relaxes you. You’d be having fun and doing something really great for yourself.
Listen carefully…
…And repeat if you can. Pay close attention to not only what the locals say, but also the way they say it. Try to mimic their pronunciation, word choice, and sentence structure. Always bear in mind that different languages have a different set of rules, so even if something (like word order) seems completely logical in English, it is not necessarily natural in other languages. Similarly, words that in your mind have no negative connotation can be extremely offensive to the native speakers, which is the reason why it is vital to listen to their speech. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback or help. If you make friends with the locals, encourage them to correct the mistakes that you make.
So, it’s not as difficult as one would think, is it? Even though both the process of learning and the knowledge itself are extremely beneficial, it wouldn’t do us any good to neglect the fun part of it all. Consider it an entertaining experience, approach it with a positive attitude, and try to relax, and you’ll be surprised at how awesome your progress is.