You might be thinking of learning a new language as a hobby. There people who wouldn’t think about learning a new language because of the myths and misconceptions that are unfounded. Will live in an interconnected life and the world has become a global village. You don’t necessarily have to leave your country in order to interact with someone for Japan or Mali. That is why learning a language is important as you get to learn about new cultures. You could even get a job because there has been an increasing demand for global translation services. Here are some of the reasons why you should be learning a new language.
Connect
The human experience is all about the connections that we make. The desire to reach out to another person regardless of race or creed is implanted in our DNA. There is no greater gift than the ability to interact with someone in their own language. If you’re bilingual, you’re able to communicate with other people from different cultures from your own. Once you know the language, you’re considered a local regardless of where you are in the world. You get to learn something new every day and the world humbles you in so many ways which you wouldn’t have thought possible.
Advancing Your Career
Learning a new language will give you a competitive edge in so many spheres of life. The ability to speak more than one language is among the top 8 skills that are required in most jobs. You’ll be high in the pecking order should you apply for a job that requires the applicant to be bilingual. Employers want candidates that speak and interact with customers seamlessly even when speaking different languages. You could also decide to work as a translator, given the fact that such jobs are always on demand. You will never have to worry about job prospects.
Improving Brain Function
Research has shown that there are numerous cognitive benefits that come with learning a new language. A person that speaks more than one language is likely to have improved memory, multitasking ability, better listening skills, and improved concentration. They display signs of great flexibility even in the face of adversity. Who knew learning a new language could come with such great benefits?
Understanding Different Cultures
The most effective way of immersing in other people’s culture is by learning their language. The ability to communicate in another language fosters the appreciation of other people’s cultures and traditions. When you understand another person’s culture, you’re likely to be more tolerant and empathetic to their plight. You see the world in a totally different light. Studies have shown that children that were exposed to other languages early in life are more likely to be more open and empathic compared to those who only know one language.
Travel the World
It will be a lot easier to travel the world when you know some languages. This shouldn’t stop you as you can still learn while you travel. The easiest way to get to know the people is through the language. A bilingual person will find it easy to navigate places. Spanish is the official language in South America. You will not have any problems blending in with the locals if you can fluently speak the language. Learning a new language could open opportunities such as learning and working abroad.
Boost Confidence
It is always a confidence booster if you can learn and master something new. There are not a lot of people in the world that can speak more than two languages. Learning and mastering a new language will give you the confidence to start learning other things as well. You get to move out of your comfort zone which is rewarded by a great feeling of accomplishment. Check out these language learning tips to help get you started.
Strengthen Decision Making
If you’re always indecisive then learning a new language could be the solution to overcome that particular challenge. There are studies that have shown that those decisions that are made in your second-language are more purpose-driven compared to those that are made in the native language. It is easy to distance yourself from emotions when reasoning in a second or a third language. You also gain a new perspective on things which were not previously possible when you only knew one language.
There are several benefits that we may have not mentioned. You can always start small so that you’re not overwhelmed with the process of learning.