Welcome to our first issue of the Language Exepress!

The challenge of tackling languages is one with many beneficial results, able to bridge the gap of

understanding between cultures and influence how we communicate with one another. As well as being endlessly useful for travel and employability, studies have shown the skills of learning a language improves mental function and reduces the risk of cognitive illness later in life.

 

There are many obvious, and maybe not so obvious, reasons to commit to picking up a new language, and of course it’s a very satisfying skill to master and lots of fun along the way!

 

Brain activity increases:

Especially for those who are bilingual, speaking multiple languages activates both the left and right sides of the brain related to speech and communication. Like a muscle, the brain strengthens in ability when exercised. Multilingualism improves memory, the ability to multitask, concentration, and information learning.

 

Training your mind to learn a language also helps to prevent the development of degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. The skill contributes to ‘cognitive reserve,’ meaning that brain function is retained for longer as you age.

 

You become better at decision-making:

The brain switches between analytical and emotional processing when speaking languages. This exercise long term allows the speaker to become more rational in their thinking. When tackling problems in another language, people tend to make more analytical decisions.

 

You can improve in your native language:

Listening, reading, and writing abilities overall become advanced. As well as this, coming into contact with alternative vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures can make you aware of those elements of language in your mother-tongue.

 

This is especially true if the language you are learning has been influenced by or derived from similar linguistic origins. It is interesting tracing the etymological roots of words and observe where certain words obtained their meaning.

 

It becomes easier to learn more languages after the first:

The daunting first try at learning another language can be challenging; the learner is required to grasp a new structure of grammar, wide breadth of vocabulary, and be introduced to an alternative culture. But the brain learns these processes, and if practiced, the exercise becomes increasingly easier.

 

Better employability prospects:

Acquiring a job is ever more difficult, and consequently an aptitude in speaking foreign languages is noticeable. Since it is rare, especially for native English speakers, to pursue a language to an intermediate or advanced standard, you will definitely stand out from the crowd.

 

An impressive skill which employers highly value, languages make you suitable for roles internationally which monolinguists would lose out on. Companies are reliant upon doing business with other countries, and proficiency in foreign languages is becoming more valuable.

 

Travel is easier and more stimulating:

Few can boast about being able to explore another country without feeling lost. Some basic essential phrases are enough to get by when interaction is necessary, but conversing correctly when you need, for example, directions or other information is very helpful.

 

Travelling should be about soaking up and being exposed to another culture, not just seeing another place. Your time can be enriched if you embrace the language, as well as the food, architecture, or nightlife. It can also be useful when making new international friends, and in some cases means natives are more inclined to assist you when you ask.

 

Cultural barriers are broken:

Learning a new language is a fundamental way of meeting people and making friends wherever you go. It can propel an appreciation of literature, cuisine, film, philosophy, science, nature and much more. Being enveloped in another culture can change your mindset when introduced to new ways of thinking and expressing yourself. For instance, certain phrases or words may not have direct translation to your native language which contain a specific, unique meaning of their own.

 

Your self-confidence gets a boost:

It can be a nerve-wracking experience trying to freshly speak a new language, particularly in front of fluent natives. But it is impressive, particularly for natives of the country you travel to, that you have taken the time and effort to learn their language. Once you become accustomed to navigating linguistic hurdles, you feel a rush of confidence at the achievement of integrating into conversation.

 

Whatever your reasons, learning a language is a fascinating, important, and fun endeavour and always proves to be a satisfying accomplishment.