What it would be like to learn a language at your own pace. Without feeling you have to do it quickly. Wihtout feeling overwhelmed and stressed out to get it done… now!
After all, learning a language is not like learning other subjects. Although you can cram all the possible grammar and vocabulary in a month or so, the real learning starts when you actually USE that language and PRACTISE it.
You can complete a whole Duolingo tree, but when you start using that language in speaking… that’s when the big leap (aka real learning!) happens.
And that leap takes real motivation, courage, resilience and practise. And practise takes time.
Because learning a language is a lifelong learning journey.
However, many folks nowadays have a negative perception of language learning. They think it’s boring, frustrating and excruciating.
So, they want to get rid of the learning part FAST and buy into the “fast-food language learning”. Yet, they soon come to realise that the results are not so instantaneous.
Here’s the truth:
Language learning, when done in a way that works for you, it can actually be fun, interesting and inspiring.
It will challenge you and it will get you out of your comfort zone.
It will make you confident. It will make you another person (really!)
Because learning a language means re-learning to talk about your life in a new way. And see things from a new perspective.
It’s a journey into self discovery that will open your mind and your soul.
Even Charlemagne knew it: “To have another language is to possess a second soul.”
So I’m here to tell you that you can go on this Italian learning journey slowly and steady.
Because it’s ok.
Because if you’re anything like me, you like savouring those new words under your tongue.
You like digging deeper and find all the possible meanings.
You get curious about the almost infinite possibilities in which you can use them.
You like taking detours to study or re-study grammar because grammar is they key to self expression and, guess what? It’s not a linear process. And you’ll find yourself coming back to it, over and over, but learning something different every time.
It’s essential to really master that language and internalise it.
It’s essential to enjoy learning a language (and learn in creative ways that work for you) that is likely to last a lifetime.
It’s essential because that’s how you make that language your own … without having pressure of going fast.
I’m an advocate for the motto “speak a language from day one” because it’s the one of the best ways to learn but I’m also an advocate for “learn a language slowly” because slow and steady wins the race, especially in language learning. Especially if you want to enjoy it .
Are you with me? If so, write me a BIG “Sì” in the comments below!
Ermy***
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The Language Rose with Ermy Pedata 