Learning a new language is not an easy task and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Too often, people starting on this journey will just dive into it without enough consideration, thus leaving behind any chance to succeed.
Yes, learning an entirely new language is complicated and, yes, it takes a whole lot of time.
Saying that polyglots “have a thing for languages” is just an excuse because, in the end, anybody can become a polyglot with a bit of effort. The real difference is the approach taken to the learning process and the mindset associated.
Apart from this, the only remaining thing differentiating a polyglot to someone learning their first foreign language is the amount of experience, thus making each step feel more natural for polyglots.
No matter what happens, we all start from the same point: we don’t know the language and want to learn it.
If you are about to go on a language-learning journey, then you should start by asking the right questions. Here are the 10 most important ones, each serving a specific purpose and guiding you on this magnificent path.
- Why do I want to learn this language? — Find the “Why” behind this goal and discover what attracts you in the language
- Do I want to speak the language or read it? — Notice whether you should focus on audio or written content
- What resources have I prepared before starting? — Understand that you need numerous resources to complete each other and consolidate your knowledge
- How much time can I invest daily in the learning process? — Find how to fit this new activity in your schedule every single day
- How will I get feedback on my output? — Prepare a list of ways you already know you can get feedback from, whether from people you know or not
- What would make me quit this journey? — Be aware that you can give up and know why you would. So you can avoid it.
- How can I use the language quickly? — Realize the importance of making use of it to stay interested
- In which aspects of the culture do I lack knowledge and where could I discover more? — Find completely new hobbies in your target language.
- What level will I consider “enough”? — Know how far you’re ready to go
- What is my system to stay consistent in my studies? — Make sure you can stay accountable in order to avoid procrastination
Each of those can be cut into smaller questions but be careful not to end up with closed-questions. Those can give you a false sense of security as you dive into this long journey.
And if you’re not even considering learning a new language, let me know why not!
Yuhakko 语학子 