In today’s globalized economy, you can’t afford to be stuck with only one language at your disposal. Aspiring young professionals and seasoned market veterans alike are coming to realize the importance of mastering a second or third language, and are relying on these key tips to help them master their new tongues in a matter of months.
1: Understand it’s a marathon, not a sprint
Learning a new language is a long-term commitment, and you should understand that you’ll only be frustrated if you think you can master a new language overnight. Those hoping to become fluent in French or aiming to excel with the English language should understand that mastery takes serious time, and that you’ll need to plot out your language training sessions in short burst if you’re to have any success.
2: Don’t rely on the old ways of learning
One surprising thing about 21st century language-education is how many people are still relying on old ways of learning; older people in particular are often completely unaware of the myriad of digital approaches available to would-be language-learners today. Take a look at some of today’s leading language apps, which are often free to download and always easy to use, and you’ll be on track to master your desired language faster than ever before.
3: Make it part of your everyday routine
Learning a language isn’t something that can be confined to a classroom; to master a new tongue, you’ll need to employ it in your everyday routine. Follow the stellar advice of some of today’s leading translators, and pick a few key vocabulary words to regularly employ around your friends and loved ones. It might get you some strange glances at first, but actually using a language in an everyday context, rather than confining your usage to a learning environment, is a vital part of truly coming to master it.
4: Dive into the culture
Part of understanding the complexities behind any given language is understand the culture behind it. If you want to develop a fine fluency in French with the help of a language training agency, it will inspire you to try some fine Parisian cuisine, for instance. Developing superior Spanish skills can be expeditated by listening to popular Spanish music, too. The truth of the matter is that language is often reflective of the people who use it, and understanding their vibrant culture will help you master their unfamiliar patterns of speech and idioms.
5: Have a higher goal
Learning a language in and of itself is a fantastic goal, but having a higher aim – like getting a job in a certain area, or making new friends in an unfamiliar city – will go a long way towards guaranteeing you remain committed to your task. You should examine the top languages others are learning right now, and assess their varying levels of difficult, before plunging into a new tongue headfirst.
Don’t be daunted by the challenges of mastering a new language; it’s a long, uphill battle, but mastering a new language is a thrilling and fulfilling experience that you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Jeremiah Owyang is an internet entrepreneur and a language expert.
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