Learning a new language opens up endless possibilities in various areas of a person’s life. The fact is that, whether on a personal, academic or professional level, it is possible to experience various changes motivated by mastering a second language. Here we explain all the pros and cons of learning a new language.
Pros of learning a new language
Most adults who decide to learn a new language do so for social, economic and even political reasons, in search of a better quality of life and new opportunities that have an impact on various aspects.
Below, we explain in more detail some of the benefits of learning a new language:
Learning a foreign language is useful
Knowing one more language opens up the possibilities of social interrelationship with people from other parts of the world. Furthermore, this activity allows for greater development in the professional and academic fields, as well as the cultural enrichment of the person.
In addition, proficiency in more than one language increases the likelihood of getting a better job, and the higher the level of language proficiency, the more competitive the job performance.
Travel in total freedom
By learning a new language you can travel to other parts of the world without having to depend on others. You will enjoy the experience of staying and travelling like a local, discovering places of interest and attractions that often go unnoticed by most tourists.
Communicate and make new friends
As we said before, having a good command of a foreign language allows you to get in touch with people from different places and cultures. In this way, it will be easier to make foreign friends without the existence of language barriers affecting communication.
Train your brain
Learning a new language is one of the best brain training exercises, known as Brain Training. This action contributes to the development of cognitive skills.
In other words, this practice is beneficial for your health, as learning a new language can also help prevent disorders related to memory loss.
Boosts self-confidence
Another advantage of learning a new language is that it allows for greater self-confidence, as progress in learning motivates us to constantly improve. Meanwhile, it is common during the process for other people to show admiration towards you for being highly motivated to learn a foreign language.
It provides the opportunity to live, work or study abroad.
Mastering a foreign language opens up endless personal, academic and professional possibilities. If you are an adventurous person, it is likely that mastering a new language will open doors to some of your dream destinations.
Also, leaving your home country will give you access to a dream job, and may even help you find the love of your life. All this while travelling the world and getting to know new cultures.
Cons of learning a language
Just as there are countless pros, there are also some cons to learning a foreign language. Some of these cons are as follows:
Learning languages is expensive
For many people, going to a foreign language school or receiving private lessons is financially unaffordable. For this reason, some users turn to cheaper or even free alternatives to help them learn even the basics.
Some useful strategies for language learning are contacting native speakers to establish conversations with them. It is also useful to acquire books or manuals that allow you to learn vocabulary and grammar on your own.
Some languages are only spoken in a few places
Before learning a language, it is important to highlight the reasons why you want to learn that foreign language. However, deciding to learn a language that is not widely spoken in the world can only be useful in specific situations. For example, when you decide to travel or move to a destination where that language is spoken.
Fear of mistakes
Often, people who are learning a foreign language face the fear of making mistakes. Therefore, it is advisable to use teaching methods that help to eradicate these fears, build confidence and show that you can learn from your mistakes.
In short, if you have decided to learn a new language, you must be willing to overcome any barriers and face any possible obstacles that may stand in your way. The important thing is to always remain motivated, and to nurture the desire to overcome yourself.
