Language is one of the foundations of a community. It is one of the many things that connect people towards other people. Evidently, languages from different parts of the globe vary from one another, despite the relations it has with how the words are pronounced and spelled.
All throughout history, it has been established that language helps build the community and keeps the foundation strong. Through language, an understanding between the people are made, providing the development needed by the society. Everyone has their own main language.
But with all the languages in the world, having a second language is vital. Learning a second language not only encourages community balance, respect, and understanding, but it also encourages the other people to go beyond the norm of just knowing their native tongue.
There are tons of second language choices for you. You have Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, and even Greek.
To choose from this list is a bit of a challenge and can be confusing at times. Written below are the things to consider first before rushing into learning a second language.
Motivation is the Key
In whatever adventure and opportunities people make, they are always fueled by motivation. It is the key to many things and that includes success. To achieve this, we should have that burning desire to learn, and in this case, learning a second language.
If he or she lacks motivation, success is limited and effort will be wasted. So before choosing the best second language to learn, make sure the motivation for learning are clear and present. For example, a person is aiming to learn the language so he or she can communicate properly with others when transferring to a new place for work, travel, leisure or residence. In that way, diversion is minimal and the concentration is at its maximum.
The Language of Business
In this corporate-centered society, learning the language used in a business is important. Society is highly statured on peaking business towers and streets. Most people are aiming for jobs with high pay, naturally.
People are venturing into other places of the world looking for jobs that would not only fit their qualifications but also something they would like to pursue in their chosen career. International business opportunities are open and waiting for the right people. And to effectively stay on the job, proper communication and facility for language used in business couldn’t be highlighted enough.
It would really help if you know how to communicate effectively with people in business. Additionally, hiring officers would be impressed if your CV boasts of your knowledge in another language, other than your native one.
But also remember that the career path you are heading to also affect your choices of second languages to learn. Just remember that the language you choose should have a positive influence to your career path and work.
The Language of Schools
Schools cater numerous classes that focuses on learning other languages. During high school, and even some courses in college, subjects like French and Spanish are part of the curriculum. But it is not only about the language, you will also learn about the culture, traditions, and the people. That’s an advantage for a lot of people.
Learning about another country helps in being more diverse and open-minded about the world. However, for your education, it is best to choose the second language that is relevant to the subject you will be learning. For those interested in engineering or technology-driven like machines and robotics, learning Japanese might be helpful.
Those interested in arts and culture should take Spanish classes. For students into music, Italian is one of the finest choices. And for the Sciences and Philosophy, the best second languages to choose from are German, Greek, and French. The acquisition of learning a second language will benefit the students in their adventure into the subjects they love.
Language that’s Easy
Are there languages that are easy to learn because of the familiar alphabet used? An example would be the French or Spanish language. Take note that you don’t have to learn a new type of alphabet in learning the whole language itself.
This makes the learning process a little bit easier. The mechanism of how to pronounce and talk like the language you are learning is easier with an alphabet you are familiar with.
Language that’s Hard
There are languages that’s dissimilar to your “typical” Roman alphabet. In learning the second language, you must learn the new alphabet too. Languages like Japanese, Chinese, Russian, and Arabic have very different alphabets which can be difficult to learn. But you’ll get by one way or another. These languages are not commonly taught because of its perceived difficulty.
With the two interacting, there have been some chances of having these languages not chosen by people to learn as a second language. But if you are motivated despite of its perceived difficulty, go for it!
For Lifetime
The choice of learning a second language can affect you in the long run. With the diversity you are accustomed to because learning, you get to experience more than what you are aiming for.
You can build you career through the second language you’ve learned, as well as building relationships and connection throughout the world. So, you really have to choose wisely.
Before choosing the best second language to learn, consider the six things mentioned above. But if you have your eyes set on one goal, then go for it. Be motivated to learn the language of your choice and enjoy.