The use of language endlessly weaves its way into every second of our lives, driving who we are and what we believe in. However, spoken language does not hold a unanimous sound over oceans, continents, and even countries. Hearing a foreign language spoken on a busy street, in a crowded room, or in the course of any daily occurrence, rings louder to me than my first language. Why? I find language captivating to the most powerful degree, and awe washes over me as I try to comprehend how one’s language could differ so immensely from my own. Learning another language has opened many doors to me, and can truly benefit anyone willing to invest the time to do so. If you’re asking yourself If it’s worth the time, consider these 4 reasons…
Lay the Foundation for an Amazing Friendship
One of my best friendships was built around my interest in her language and culture. I loved visiting her house and having her make me Hungarian crepes that oozed with apricot jam and Nutella. I made an effort to learn some of her first-language, and it made me feel indescribably closer to her and know her on a deeper level.
Increase Your Brain Power
Being bilingual has many positives, like increasing your cognitive abilities. It helps you to approach issues in an open-minded approach and search for alternate solutions in the midst of a problem. In addition, knowing a second language can boost memorization skills.
Travel Better
If you want to get the most out of your travels, try to learn some of the language before you go. Even knowing a couple phrases and slang terms can come in handy when traveling in a foreign country. Plus, it will allow you to have conversation with the locals, feel comfortable ordering at restaurants, and figuring your way around.
Make Your Perspectives Broader
I know it’s cliché, but perspective is everything. The more information you know, the better you can mold and enhance your outlook on situations, issues, and daily occurrences. Your perspectives, like language, make you who you are. Language can help you discover more about yourself.
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” -Nelson Mandela
