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Oftentimes when we set out to do something, we are so eager to get things done that we don’t think straight. The same thing happens when we study a foreign language.

Learning a language entails a wide array of actions and thoughts that have to be taken into consideration but that no one does. Let me tell you some points that come to mind:

1. You are learning English because either you want to or you have to. If it’s for pleasure, then you are in no rush. But even if you don’t have a deadline you need to plan your studies. First step is to think positively and visualize how many good things can come to your life when you know English: you can read books that are not published in Brazil, visit websites you would never think of visiting, plunge into another culture, watch movies with their original sounds (and no subtitles), among others.

If you’re learning English because you have to (a trip, for work, etc.) then you need to be more organized and study correctly. What I mean by correctly is that sometimes we waste time doing pointless activities, the ones that don’t bring us positive feedback. Let me give you an example: suppose you’re a beginner and you suddenly decide to spend 2 hours a day watching CNN. You might end up picking up something but ultimately you will just waste your precious time. Why not try something easier, like a graded reader or a podcast?

2. Repetition. No, I’m not talking about memorizing lists of words like 30 years ago. I’m talking about being exposed to the same kind of language many times. For instance, you can listen to this podcast many, many times. At first, listen and pay attention to the pronunciation and intonation. Listen many times. Then, listen and read along with the script, pay attention how words are used together. Listen as much as you can. After you have taken these approaches, listen analytically. Listen, stop the audio, repeat, imitate the speaker. Listen again, read at the same time as the speaker is reading.

Don’t stop until you have mastered your audio program. Why be “good” when you can be “excellent”?

Remember, always think positively. Learning a foreign language is a unique experience. It’s not always easy but always remember that if someone has done it, you can also do it!

These are the tips for today! I’ll be back with more next week!

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