Have you thought about writing New Year’s resolutions yet? If not, you should consider learning a new language, a type of learning so valuable that it not only broadens your vocabulary, but is also capable of breaking down boundaries that have been limiting you in many ways.

In fact, there is no reason why such initiatives should benefit you; there are several reasons to learn a new language.

1. Improve your first language proficiency

Goethe, the German poet, said “who does not know foreign languages, knows nothing of his own”.

2. Improved listening skills

People usually focus on their ability to speak and express themselves believing that this is the only requirement for optimal communication. Knowing how to listen implies drawing attention to the other person’s words.

3. If you already know one language, it is easier to learn another

You will be challenging your brain and I assure you that it will rise to the occasion. And no excuses…If you already know a language, you can learn another online or become self-taught quickly.

4. Increases attention and improves memory

In these times, we spend our lives between electronic devices, so it is very interesting that an activity can increase attention and improve memory. Both are faculties of our mind that we must exercise frequently. So you know, you have to “send your brain to the gym”.

5. Improves self-esteem and confidence

Achieving goals and achieving objectives provides you with an increase in self-esteem and a strong dose of confidence to continue.

6. Bilingual people have certain virtues

Bilingual or even multilingual people are more creative, more tolerant, more flexible and have a more open mind to the world.

7. Bilingualism makes us better at multitasking

Multitasking is a person’s ability to do several things at the same time.

8. Improve your expectations about the future

Studying, working and even living abroad will be dreams come true. Travelling will be different from now on. Whether you are a student or a professional, your horizon of work and training will change as you learn another language.

9. You know other cultures

Learning another language means immersing yourself in a new universe. Soon you will learn another way of conceiving the world, other ways of thinking and living.

10. You meet other people and make new friends

It’s clear: with new ways of expressing oneself, new social contacts arrive.

How can languages help you