Even at old age, you can still learn a new language.
But you gotta let go of certain prejudices that exist about older language learners.
These prejudices hold you back from even giving it a go.
When readers ask me for specific tips for older learners, I always share my two rules for older language learners with them.
The rules aren’t tactical. They’ve got more to do with the mindset of older learners.
Here they are:
Rule #1: Don’t Accept the Stereotype that You’re Not as Good a Learner as Young People
The first and most important rule.
You must not believe you’re not as capable as younger learners, without actual evidence supporting that notion.
Because if you do, this belief quickly becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy that will significantly impede your progress.
Yes, young folks have certain advantages. But so do you!
When you’re older, you can draw upon many life experiences and may have done a lot of studying in your times.
In other words, you can better direct your language learning.
This is a huge advantage.
Also, you may have more free time on your hands than when you were younger. Couple that with the possibility that you’re now a more patient person, and you have another massive plus.
And what about motivation?
Many young people might not have the motivation to learn a new language. Outside forces might “oblige” them to learn one.
If you decide to learn a new language, it’s completely your decision.
Rule #2: Accept the Stereotype that You’re Not as Good a Learner as Young People
Now, this might be a little confusing, but rule #2 is the opposite of rule #1.
Rule #2 only comes into effect after you’ve done everything to prove yourself and your prejudices wrong.
Only when you’re 100% sure that your learning skills aren’t what they used to be, is it time to accept that “fact”.
But ONLY, after you’ve given it some time.
The wonderful news is that even if you come this conclusion…
It doesn’t matter!
Learning is: learning, forgetting and relearning anyway.
You learn a new word, you forget it, you relearn the word, you forget it again, etc…
Each cycle strengthens the memory connection in your brain.
If you’re older it might take a few more cycles for something to stick, but that’s fine. You can’t escape forgetting altogether, even if you’re 4 years old!
And let’s not forget some of the possible benefits of learning a language at any age.
· Improved Memory
· Improved Cognition
· Broadens your horizons
· May help protect against Alzheimer’s disease
· Enriches your social life
· Better decision-making skills
So, even if you don’t reach super-duper fluency—whatever that is—you’ll always benefit from language learning.
Therefore, Sir or Madam….
If you’re thinking about learning another language:
Do it! Ain’t no excuses… only good things can come from it.
Source: smartlanguagelearner.com
