What makes a good language learner
Sometimes while trying to learn a language, you may get frustrated. Verb conjugation is too difficult, there are too many words to remember, or you just can’t get the accent right.
This doesn’t mean you aren’t cut out for learning another language.
Anyone can learn a language. It may be easier for some than others, just as some people are a whiz at math and other struggle. How can I be so sure that you can learn another language? Simple, you’re reading this, aren’t you? If you learned English, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to learn Spanish, Italian, Japanese or another language.
How can you become a better language learner?
Know your learning style
If you’re a read-and-know learner, use a textbook to learn. If you enjoy lectures and listening and can understand what you’re learning perfectly well, then pick up some audio tapes to listen to. If you’re a hands-on learner, take a local immersion class or purchase interactive software.
You know how you learn best. Use that information to your advantage.
Take it seriously and be consistent
If you want to learn a language, you really have to commit yourself. Don’t just say you want to learn to speak Italian and spend an hour today, half an hour a week later, and continue on sporadically, then wonder why you can’t understand a word of Italian.
Make a plan and stick with it. Decide how much time you will spend each and everyday, plan out how you will study and what you will use, and actually follow your plan.
Understand it’s not overnight success
Think about what makes up a language. Thousands of words, hundreds of rules, and the ability to easily put them together into coherent thoughts. It takes time.
Don’t keep thinking about how much time it’s going to take to be fluent. Just work hard, learn, and imagine yourself speaking with ease. Don’t let yourself get frustrated bu the time it takes you.
Believe in yourself
Don’t let the overuse of this phrase destroy its validity. If you say you’ll never be able to speak Russian, you will never be able to speak Russian. Your own self confidence is more powerful than you might realize.