Learning should always be fun. Learning is a part of life that should not be taken for granted. Learning a language should be a must for everyone because of the benefits. I'm going to warn you, if things take forever to stick (like me) then it's going to be even more of a challenge for you. I love learning but I take a bit longer to understand things that catch my attention right away. When I started dating my husband, he's from Brasil, I knew I wanted to be with him for a long time. Yes, he speaks perfect English, but I wanted to have a way to communicate with his family back in Brasil. Family is big to me and I wanted to get to know his family. Learning a new language is a challenge, but it is so worth it in the end.
I am currently in my last semester of college and I have to take Portuguese II and I'm having trouble speaking. Speaking in the first place is hard for me in English ( my native language), so it's even more of a challenge when I speak in Portuguese for my class. Learning to deal with my moderate anxiety mixed with perfectionism is a mountain climb along with learning Portuguese. Honestly, I am still trying to find my way through the mountain but I will get there when I get there. My husband and his family have been my support system the whole time I am learning Portuguese. I am blessed to have them.
Learning a language improves one's life. Did you know that you have less of a risk of developing memory problems down the road? Learning a new language gives you a greater understanding of the world around you and gives you a chance to use your new skill and go to a new place to practice with locals. If you take language classes at universities, there are opportunities (sometimes) to study abroad in the countries that speak your new language. Imagine being able to speak to a local and possibly gaining a new friend. We can all use new friends. Eating new food from that culture that you ordered in their language is so satisfying. I would highly recommend finding Brasilian cheese bread (Pao de quesijo) because that stuff is better than Dominos cheese bread.
Learning new things should always be your to-do list especially languages. I have a classmate who is 72 years young and is taking Portuguese because he wants to keep his mind sharp. I have a lot of respect for him. Learning a new language can keep your mind sharp and can lessen the effects of memory problems down the road. When you become more comfortable, you will be able to travel to a place that speaks the language and order delicious food. Having support to learn a new language is a beautiful thing to have. Outside of your teachers, having a native speaker makes your life so much easier in the learning process!
Boa Sorte Minha Gentes!