You probably think learning a new language is a drag. I hear you – it’s just too much of an effort to learn all the new vocabulary, grammar rules and pronunciation principles, isn’t it? But the truth is, all these issues aside, learning a second language is beneficial for your brain in a multitude of ways.
A brain forever young
When you learn a second language, strange things happen to your brain. More precisely, language learning in adults is now proven to delay cognitive deterioration. In other words, your brain stays young and fit for longer.
A study published in the journal Annals of Neurology looked into how bilingualism affects people’s cognitive aging. The researchers concluded that even when the second language was mastered in adulthood, it positively affected the person’s cognitive function and fitness.
Career opportunities flourish
Knowing a second language at a proficient level gives you the chance to further expand your career prospects. It’s easier to find a job in different country if you speak their language. Just think, you can finally relocate to picturesque Barcelona, because those Spanish lessons got you that executive position at a big cosmetics company!
Travel made easier
Traveling can be a bit intimidating if the locals don’t know English and you don’t speak their language. However, if you know a key language like German, Spanish, Chinese, or French, then you can visit numerous countries and have absolutely no communication issues.
An added benefit is that you get to interact with locals and find out the best places and things to do. Knowing the language helps you immerse yourself more deeply into the culture and worldview of the country you’re visiting, making the whole journey eye-opening.
Furthermore, it’s impossible to learn a new language and stay detached from the culture it stems from. When we learn a language it comes along with the cultural background and the color palette that paints the picture of its people and their customs.
Learning a new language is more than learning a few grammar rules and colloquialisms. It’s about learning how natives of that language behave and think, what they prioritize, and what lives they lead.
A language is a window to the culture of a people, and it’s astonishing what view you get once you master it.
Self-development and self-confidence boost
You don’t need to have a reason other than self-growth to learn a new language. In a world where monoglots are becoming a minority, you should be looking for ways to become at least bilingual.
Knowing a second language makes you a confident, knowledgeable individual. Learning a second or third language is a great achievement you will be proud of. Mastering a new language is a worthwhile achievement, and doing so gives you the confidence boost you need to focus on perfecting your vocabulary, and even learning more languages along the way.
Consider learning a new language even if you think you’re past the learning age. Adults can learn a new language at any age, as studies consistently confirm. You will just be using different tools and different experiences than a child would, that’s all – but you’ll get the same benefits.
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