Hola, bonjour, konnichiwa! Learning a second language is a fantastic way to challenge yourself, expand your horizons, and immerse yourself in new cultures. Not only is it a fun and fascinating experience, but it also comes with a plethora of benefits that can help to enhance your personal and professional life.
Whether you’re a recruiter looking to expand your language skills, or simply someone who wants to add some pizzazz to your life, learning a second language is the perfect way to do it!
Here are some benefits of learning a second language:
1. Boosts cognitive function
Learning a new language exercises your brain and can improve cognitive function. Research shows it can also delay the onset of cognitive decline and even reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia.
2. Enhances job prospects
Being bilingual or multilingual is highly sought-after by employers, as it demonstrates adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and communication skills.
3. Simplifies international travel
Knowing a second language can make travel a breeze. It allows you to communicate with locals, navigate unfamiliar places, and truly immerse yourself in new cultures.
4. Fosters cultural understanding
Language and culture are inherently intertwined. By learning a new language, you also gain insight into the culture and history of the people who speak it. This can foster greater understanding and appreciation of other cultures.
5. Expands social networks
Knowing a second language opens up new social opportunities. It allows you to connect with people from different backgrounds and build relationships!
6. Improves communication skills
Learning a new language improves communication skills in all areas of life. It can improve your listening skills, help you articulate your thoughts more clearly, and even improve your ability to communicate in your native language.
When I began my journey learning languages, I was always so interested in the historical contexts of the writing and the different ways one can speak to another depending on formalities. Studying Japanese was both fun and a challenge, it got me excited about branching out to new people, opening up the possibility of living as a local, and even understanding a lot of the anime and manga (Japanese comics) that I read.
However, it came with its challenges – memorising vocabulary and understanding the different forms, even how there’s words in Japanese that have no counterpart in English. It was so hard to get my head around when I first began, and I had to figure out what suits me and my learning style in order to reach my current level.
My top tips for learning a language are:
Be passionate about the language and culture
Listen to music and watch movies in the language you’re studying. Don’t be ashamed if you have to watch children shows. I watch Japanese Sesame Street!
Apply vocabulary learnt in everyday situations
I would use words I learnt in Japanese around my home. For example, when I arrived home. I would say “Tadaima” which means I’m home, I’ve returned, and my family would respond “Okari!” Which means welcome back!
Buddy up with likeminded people
I started learning Japanese at a language school. You are put into a room with people at the same level as you and all who come from different walks of life. Everyone is essentially in the same boat and willing to make mistakes to get it better. Another great way to connect, make friends and learn something new.
Learning a new language comes with many benefits that extend far beyond simply being able to speak another language. It is a fulfilling and enriching experience that can bring numerous benefits to your personal and professional life. From improving cognitive function and communication skills to fostering cultural understanding and expanding social networks, there are many reasons to embark on a language learning journey. So, why not challenge yourself to learn a new language today?
As always, please feel free to chime in with your own advice on hobbies that help your career and let us know if there are any topics you would love us to look into. You can contact us here.
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