So. You’ve decided you want to speak another language. But as we all know, learning and knowing are two very different things, so brace yourself for the bumpy road ahead…
1. The optimistic early days
Hurrah! You’re going to learn a language, and it’s going to be easy, and fun, and you’re going to be fluent before you know it. Bring it on!
2. The study hours
So, with great enthusiasm, you buy books, download apps, spend days learning verb endings…
3. The reality check
Oh. Turns out this might not be as easy as you thought.
4. The tough days
Sometimes it’ll feel like nothing’s sinking in…
5. The lazy days
The sun’s out. Who wants to sit around studying? Let’s go to the beach!
6. The doubts
What if you make a mistake and embarrass yourself?
7. The panic
Or join in a conversation and then don’t understand a word?
8. The despair
You may even feel like giving up altogether.
But don’t – because it’s about to get good!
9. The first successful conversation
When you ask someone for an ice cream – and actually get what you asked for. The right flavour and everything…
10. The quiet satisfaction
When you impress people by telling them you speak another language.
11. That smug feeling
When you see a tourist struggling, and you can be the mysterious stranger who steps in and helps them out.
12. The sense of achievement
When you talk to someone in their language and they don’t immediately realise you’re from a different country.
And let’s not forget…
13. The new places you can discover
14. The new friends you’ll make
15. It even makes you smarter.
So what are you waiting for?