Can I Really Learn a New Language?

by Julie Thompson

5 Excuses for Not Learning a Second Language

Have you noticed that more people around you are not speaking your native language? Have you seen more and more store signs written in two or more languages? Have you had a conversation with your children and, all of a sudden, you hear them use a foreign word or expression without them even blinking an eye?

If you've experienced these situations, then you're having your first encounters with the effects of the worldwide increase in migration. And maybe you've thought, "Wouldn't it be great if I could speak their language?" That's a good thought. Hold on to it!

But, maybe you start thinking, "Wait a minute; I can't learn another language!" And, the excuses start to mount up. Well, let's talk about some of the more common rationales for not learning a new language, and why we should think again before we consider ourselves as permanently monolingual.

1. I'm too busy.

Yes, all of us lead busy lives. It seems that we just don't have time to do anything. Yet, how much time do we spend reading the newspaper, listening to music, surfing the Internet, playing a sport, going out to eat? Can you adjust your schedule so as to take a little time each day? You don't have to set aside hours and hours each week to learn a new language. In fact, it's better to practice 15 minutes a day than to have a long lesson once a week.

2. I'm too old.

Well, just how old are you? Anybody can learn a new language, and your age has nothing to do with your capacity for learning. Perhaps you may not learn as fast as a junior high school student, but you have something else: experience. And that counts for much when it comes to understanding how other language speakers think.

3. I don't have a gift for languages.

Who does? Actually, there are very few who have a true gift for languages. Most of us have to work at it. But, it took us at least three years to become fluent in our native language, didn't it? And, we had language professors round the clock, all year long. So, if you're willing to work at it, and work regularly at it, you will be able to communicate in your new language in less time than you think.

4. I get bored in class.

There are very few of us who don't get bored in class. But, have you noticed what makes the difference between being bored and not being bored? The ones who aren't bored in class are the ones who are genuinely interested in the subject. Even if the teacher is boring, if the subject interests you, you can always find a way to stay interested throughout the class. Some do it through innovative note-taking. Some write down auxiliary questions that come to their minds during the class and do research on them later. Sure, not all teachers are able to motivate their students. However, all students can keep themselves motivated if they want to.

5. I don't have the money or time to take a college course.

Ah, but you don't have to take a college course! Did you know that there are many other ways to take a language course? Read the free article Learning a Second Language, and you might amazed to find how many options you have.

There are many more good reasons to learn a new language than excuses NOT to learn a new language. Why not pick one and try it? You might like it!

If you're ready to quit making excuses, you can start Learning a Second Language right now.