Learning a new language can be a complex endeavor and, although rewarding, it can sometimes deplete a little (or a lot) of your brainpower. Here are some of our best tips for keeping you focused while trying to learn something new.
Learning a new language can be a complex endeavor and, although rewarding it can sometimes deplete a little (or a lot) of your brainpower. With that in mind, here are some of our best tips for keeping you focused while trying to learn something new.
Ditch the Distractions
Namely, your phone. If you’re using an app to learn a new language, then put your phone into Do Not Disturb mode so that you won’t be tempted to reply to any of your friends if they try to call or message you while you’re studying. If your phone is not required, then do one better and completely remove it out of sight (and out of mind). If you’re studying upstairs, take the phone downstairs into the lounge, so you’re not tempted to just pick it up and have a quick scroll in between verbs.
Find New Ways to Learn
Learning a language through an app, school, or even with language programs and books is a great foundation when you’re first starting out. Developing skills such as conjugation of verbs and just learning basic vocabulary and tenses will help you form sentences so much easier. However, despite this, you never fully learn a language until you’re completely emerged in it.
Not everyone has the luxury of visiting or even living in the country of the language they are learning but that doesn’t mean that you still can’t chat with locals and even make friends overseas. By getting an online tutor or a penpal, you’ll learn the intricacies of how people talk on a day to day basis. Plus if you’re speaking to a friend, chances are you’ll feel like learning is less of a task and is more about having fun. Thanks to technology, we’re more connected than ever and this can be utilized so much when learning something such as a new language.
Learn in Short Bursts
Our brains only tend to stay focused for a short amount of time and then can wander off which is why you should take breaks often during your learning and even just study a few minutes a day in the beginning. Studies show that learning in short but sweet snippets can improve overall results (such as test scores) as you’re allowing your brain time to focus on each piece of information given and then retain it before moving on.
Look After Yourself
By ensuring you cover the basics and drink at least 2 l. of water a day and get a solid night’s rest, you can improve your brainpower. Think about what you’re eating too and try to stick with healthy varied and colorful meals; sugar and processed foods do nothing for your concentration. If you’re not getting all the nutrition you’d like from healthy eating, you can also take vitamins and supplements. According to GUIADESUPLEMENTOS, supplements such as creatine and omega 3 fish oils have been proven to improve your cognitive health. In Spain, for example, people have been adopting a more positive outlook with regards to taking health supplements over recent years with a preference for natural aids such as the fish oils mentioned above as they look for natural ways to stay healthy and keep their brain powered.
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