One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is learning a new language. If this is on your list this year, here are a few tips to turn this resolution into a successful and enjoyable project:
- Define tiny goals. Don’t overwhelm yourself with ambitious plans. Start with baby steps—like learning five new words a day or mastering greetings. You can take bigger steps once you feel more confident.
- Choose your materials wisely. Decide which resources you’ll use, such as apps, books, or online courses. Gather them sparingly and distribute them over different phases of your learning journey to avoid overload.
- Create a schedule. After setting goals and choosing materials, build a realistic timetable. Incorporate stepping stones and methods to evaluate your progress, such as quizzes, flashcards, or practicing with a language buddy.
- Immerse yourself in the language. Try to integrate the language into your daily life. Watch movies, listen to podcasts, or follow social media accounts in your target language. These small actions can make a big difference.
- Practice consistently. Commit to short, regular practice sessions instead of occasional long ones. Even 15 minutes a day can lead to noticeable progress over time.
- Use the language actively. Whether it’s writing a journal entry, chatting with native speakers, or even talking to yourself, using the language actively helps reinforce what you’ve learned.
- Stay motivated. Reward yourself for small achievements, like completing a lesson or reaching a milestone. Celebrating progress keeps you motivated and eager to continue.
Starting the year with a resolution to learn a new language can be an exciting and rewarding experience if approached methodically. With clear goals, a structured plan, and consistent practice, you’ll be well on your way to success.
And don’t forget to check out Reflets, the first bilingual French-English book of the series, coming soon.