If you’ve ever thought about learning a second language but dismissed it because you don’t have time, or feel it’s not that important, it could be time to think again.
According to the Guardian, learning a second language could slow ageing in the brain by up to six years. The research also showed that those who spoke four languages had brains which appeared about 13 years younger than those who spoke just one language.
As well as the cognitive benefits, there are lots of other good reasons to reconsider learning another language. Read on to find out more.
The benefits of being multilingual are wide-ranging, from boosting your confidence abroad to improving your social connections
How often have you been on holiday and thought “I hope they speak English”? Or found yourself speaking a few standard phrases and then hoping for the best?
Committing to learning a new language can undoubtedly be daunting. But as well as being able to order your favourite food in a restaurant abroad, being multilingual comes with a whole host of benefits.
1. Improving cognition
The process of learning a new language can actually change the make-up of your brain. According to Cambridge University Press and Assessment, studies have shown that bilingual people have more grey matter in their brains than those who speak just one language. They also have increased white matter, which coordinates communication across your brain functions, helping you to learn and function.
Even if you’re coming to this learning later in life, it can still be an incredibly powerful tool in supporting your cognitive function. Introducing anything novel into your life can help form neural pathways in your brain, with the process of learning new words, practising spoken, written, and listening skills, and continuing to build on your knowledge giving you a challenging mental workout.
2. Expanding your horizons
When you learn a new language, you don’t just learn new words. You learn about a whole new culture, which gives you a wider understanding of the world and an appreciation of the different values and traditions across societies.
It can also be a great confidence boost, as you start to reap the rewards of your learning. Discovering you have the mental agility and aptitude you need to learn another language can create a sense of determination and purpose to continue working to achieve your goals.
Putting your new skills into action is another big motivator to keep learning. Once you’ve ordered a meal, asked for directions, or even held a conversation in your new language, you’ll be keen to keep on improving – or even get to grips with yet another language.
When you become proficient in the language, you might even start reading books, watching films, or listening to music from that country or culture; it really can open up a whole new world of opportunity for you.
3. Increasing your opportunities for social connections
Learning a language can be a great shared hobby with family and friends, or to keep up with your grandchildren if they’re learning a language at school. If you decide to take an in-person class, this can also be a great way to meet new, like-minded people.
How to learn your new language
There are several ways to approach learning a new language, so you can choose whichever is the most convenient to you, or mix and match.
Apps
Learning via app is an increasingly popular method, as you can work at your own pace and in your own time.
Apps such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise offer a wide range of languages and are ideal for beginners thanks to their bite-size content and easy-to-use structures.
Local classes
If you prefer in-person learning, then a local class is a great way to mix studying with socialising.
Check out evening classes at local colleges, and short courses at universities and community groups. Your local u3a (university of the third age) may also offer some language courses; if your nearest branch doesn’t run them, you can often access these online instead.
Private tutor
If you’re really serious about getting to grips with a new language, then you could hire a private tutor. This is likely to be more expensive than self-learning or college-based classes, but you’ll get one-to-one teaching tailored to your own study style. This means you’re more likely to make faster progress, as you can focus on areas which need more attention.
Many tutors now offer lessons online, too, making them more accessible.
Choosing your language is a personal decision, and it’s a good idea to think of it as continuous learning
A survey by the British Council found that the most popular choices for a second language were:
- Spanish (25%)
- French (21%)
- Italian (14%)
- German (13%)
- Japanese (10%)
But the world really is your oyster. If you regularly travel to the same country or region, you may wish to make this your language of choice. Alternatively, you could choose something more unusual to really give yourself a challenge.
It takes everyone a different amount of time to master a new language, depending on how much time you devote to it. You may become quickly proficient in vocabulary, but find your listening and writing skills need more attention. So, think of your learning as continuous and fluid, rather than with a beginning and end.
Practising little and often is usually the best way to make progress, but mistakes and frustration are all part of the process, so go easy on yourself. Try to set small, realistic goals and celebrate your achievements. You won’t learn a whole new language in a week, but over time you can really start to notice your progress.
Get in touch
Our favourite language is finance, and we can help you with all aspects of your personal finances and long-term planning. Email hello@intelligentpensions.com or call 0800 077 8807, and we’ll be happy to help.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.