"Unleash Your Linguistic Potential: 4 Game-Changing Tips for Adult Language Learning"
Welcome to my blog! Today's post is a continuation of sorts from my previous post about Colombia and communication through language. Before we dive right into it, I received a few follow-up questions about my coffee and cheese experience. Here is an article that I found online that provides more detail and insight on this interesting pairing. (roastycoffee.com)
My language learning journey emerged, not only from my incredible experience visiting Colombia in 2019, but also from a place of frustration. I became frustrated that I couldn’t talk to the locals without hand gestures and in one- or two-word answers. So, I turned this challenge into passion as an avenue to achieve personal growth. It’s fascinating to see how frustration can be a powerful motivator for change.
After returning home, I decided to enroll in language classes and attend whatever free local event I could find to help overcome this barrier. Once the pandemic hit, I had to find creative ways to keep up with my studies and still maintain my language goals.
Through my experience, I have discovered that this passion is not just about mastering vocabulary and grammar, but also about immersing myself in the culture and understanding the nuances of communication and language. It has been a transformative experience that has opened doors to new friendships, expanded my worldview, and enriched my travels in ways I could have never imagined. So, before someone starts playing the world's tiniest violin ... let's start giving some tips. I knew you thought it before I said it. LOL!!
Gamechanger #1 Don’t be afraid to sound silly
If the value of my cryptocurrency matched the number of times I've heard this statement, I would be close to becoming a millionaire. Of course, it would also depend on the exchange rate that day. HAHA! As an adult learner, I’ve come to understand that many of us prefer not to be looked at as foolish. It’s important to remember that making mistakes and being willing to learn from them is a natural part of the learning process. Candid and honest right now, this is something I still deal with every now and then. I want people to take me seriously, so I tend to over analyze my words, overthink, and worry about making mistakes especially in front of native speakers (*looks around*). This type of thinking will cause you to miss out on some wonderful exchange practice opportunities for fear of not sounding “good enough.”
However, I am constantly reminding myself that making mistakes is a normal and necessary part of learning and growth. It's through these mistakes we gain valuable experience and improve our skills. So, while it's natural to desire being taken seriously, it's just as important to embrace the learning journey and being open to making mistakes along the way.
Instead of worrying about sounding perfect, focus on effective communication and expressing your thoughts. Embrace the opportunity to learn from your interactions with native speakers because they can provide valuable insight and correction. Native speakers are often understanding and appreciative of non-speakers’ efforts to communicate in their language. I can hear the voice of a particular friend saying, “Don’t be afraid to talk, continue talking and talk some more.” Remember that the goal is to learn and improve, not to achieve FLAWLESS PERFECTION overnight.

Gamechanger #2 Thirty-day (30) language learning gimmicks are ineffective
Some language learning techniques or programs offer quick results within a month it is important to approach these claims with a certain level of skepticism. Learning a language involves acquiring vocabulary, understanding grammar rules, developing listening (*training your ears*) speaking skills, and building cultural competency. These aspects cannot be understood within a short timeframe because language learning is a gradual and ongoing process. Continued progress in linguistics requires a lot of study time, immersive experiences, and active engagement with the language itself beyond just a month. Here’s my disclaimer—yes, you will be able to regurgitate some phrases and trigger words in 30 days, but what happens when you receive a response that is not expected? Be prepared to be unprepared. TUH!! It’s rough out on these language streets, trying to navigate the unpredictability of real-life conversations that scripted phrases alone cannot provide. LOL!!
Also, depending on the language that you are learning and its region, you need to factor in colloquialism, dialect, and cultural context. Learning vocabulary words is the building block to a successful language journey that will continue to expand over time. Vocabulary forms the core of communication. A strong vocabulary helps your comprehension because it enables you to understand spoken and written texts more easily. To build your vocabulary, consider writing downs new words, using flashcards, and watching movies or TV shows with subtitles in your target language. Save your time and money by downloading free apps that provide vocabulary, grammar lessons and other valuable resources.
MESSAGE!! Keep in mind that apps should NOT be your only source of learning. For a more well-rounded experience, apps work best when combined with other study material such as online articles, books, and tutorials.
Gamechanger #3 Create your own personal immersion experience
Immersion experiences allow you to engross yourself in different cultures and appreciate their unique customs, traditions, and ways of life. While traveling to different countries can provide a rich and immersive experience, it's not the only way to explore and learn about different cultures. There are so many ways to create an immersive experience if you are unable to travel. Creating this experience is easy; it just requires a bit of creativity and some out-of-the-box thinking. You can create your own immersive language-learning environment at home. Surround yourself with books, movies, music, and even sticky notes, and try to incorporate these into your daily life as much as possible. I have placed index card cutout labels around my home in strategic places that I often pass by, and they provide great visual learning cues. A few examples include: the coffeemaker (this location is important—LOL), light switch, key ring holder, bookshelf, etc. The main point is to keep your interests in view that way it will effortlessly become a part of your daily routine. As the saying goes, “If it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind”.
Another keynote of interest is to spend time figuring out your specific learning style. Everyone’s learning style will differ, and what works for one person may not work for another. Your specific style(s) will dictate how well you receive and retain information especially in another language. Mapping this out is important because you will be able to identify your preferences and strengths when it comes to learning and, in turn, overcome any challenges that you may face. And, in my best G.I. Joe voice, “Now you know. And knowing is half the battle. LOL!!
Gamechanger #4 Set clear, realistic goals for yourself
Truth be told: learning a new language as an adult is hard but not IMPOSSIBLE. However, setting realistic goals is crucial for maintaining personal motivation and making steady progress. While you assess and think about your goals, here are a few questions you should consider:
1. Why am I learning a new language?
2. Is this a hobby just to pass time or am I willing to make this a lifetime commitment?
3. How can I stay motivated and consistent throughout the process?

Clearly define what you want to achieve in your personal language journey. I’ve heard many learners mention that they want to become “fluent.” Fluency is a vague term that is difficult to define because it is subjective. How can someone determine what fluency entails? Make your goals more specific such as: “speaking more confidently with a native speaker,” or “being able to understand and respond to everyday conversations.”
Divide your overall goals into small milestones like using new vocabulary words in conversations, improving pronunciation, or better understanding local customs. It is important to be flexible with your goals and timelines because some concepts will take more time to comprehend. Celebrate the small victories and push past the minor setup backs because, YES, they do happen.
Below, I’ve included links for two amazing Spanish teachers that I’ve personally relied on who have a passion to see their students succeed.
Vaneza:https://youtu.be/FQ0-PV0YpyU
In conclusion, language learning is a personal, rewarding journey that opens you up to new possibilities, allows you to connect with people from various walks of life, broadens your worldview, and enhances your cognitive abilities. Language learning also promotes personal growth and self-confidence. Building confidence in speaking a language takes time and practice. Whether you are deciding to embark on a new language journey or continue with the one you’ve already started, there are countless benefits to language learning.
Learning Korean has proven to me that no matter how intelligent I am, I still have to work extra hard to relearn vocabulary and grammar for things I’ve become accustomed to using in English to what is accurate and culturally appropriate in Korean. If you are passionate about what you’re learning, it’s worth every drop of sweat and tears!
Good information!
It’s never too late to learn a new language. Love the contents keep them coming.