Learning New Languages

English may be used as the universal language in this multicultural world. However, if you plan to study overseas or go for a holiday to places where majority of the locals do not speak English, such as Japan, China, etc, you will need to learn new languages to be able to communicate with them. Despite that, there are several reasons why you should learn new languages.

First, learning new languages can enhance your ability to multi-task. A study from Spain’s University of Pompeu Fabra revealed that multilingual people are better at observing their surroundings. They easily spot anything that is irrelevant or deceptive. They’re also better at spotting misleading information. Is it any surprise that famous, fictional detective characters such as Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot are skilled linguists?

Furthermore, learning new languages can increase your networking skills. According to Eton Institute’s Language Development in the Workforce survey (September 2014), 89% of our clients stated that multilingual employees add value to the workforce and 88% stated that recruiting team members with language skills is important to their organizations. A multilingual ability is definitely a competitive edge in today’s world.

In addition, learning new languages is a great way to boost poor self-esteem and help develop more confidence. It can be nerve-wracking working up the courage to speak in a foreign language at first, but once you do and start to receive positive feedback from native speakers, it becomes easier to overcome that fear.

Learning new languages might seem hard in the beginning. However, considering all the benefits above, you might want to try to learn one.

Sources:

1. 10 Benefits of Learning a Second Language. (2020, January 16). Lead with Languages. https://www.leadwithlanguages.org/why-learn-languages/top-ten-reasons-to-learn-languages/

2. A. (2020, July 13). Importance of Language – Why Learning a Second Language is Important - Continuing Education. Trinity Washington University. https://discover.trinitydc.edu/continuing-education/2014/02/26/importance-of-language-why-learning-a-second-language-is-important/

3. Stein-Smith, K. (2019, December 17). 7 reasons to learn a foreign language. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/7-reasons-to-learn-a-foreign-language-112369

4. M. (2020, November 16). 11 Life-changing Reasons Why You Should Learn a Language in 2021. The Intrepid Guide. https://www.theintrepidguide.com/why-you-should-learn-a-foreign-language/#.YFbJmJxR2Uk

5. Why You Should Learn a Second Language and Gain New Skills. (2020, May 12). Middlebury Language Schools. https://www.middlebury.edu/language-schools/blog/why-you-should-learn-second-language-and-gain-new-skills