1. Backstory

I grew up in a country where they speak two languages Creole and French and I have always been interested in learning a third. When I moved to the Stated, I found myself with both opportunity and motive and I took advantage of my first year to learn English so that I could get a job and enroll in college.

2. The process

I think two things are worth considering when engaging in the rewarding journey of learning a new language.

2.1. Defining your why

Defining your why is an important part of attempting any endeavor especially one that is not easy. Your why will keep you moving when the going gets hard and it will.

In my case, I needed to learn English to get a job or go to school.

2.2. Making a plan

I am really into making detailed plans for anything I attempt and it really makes it easier on your future self because at any given point you know what you should be working on. The common pitfall is to sit and try to perfect the plan without ever taking action. I have reproduced the plan I used and you can customize it to fit your need.

2.2.1. First 100 Words

Assuming you already know the alphabet, hose first 100 words are necessary for you to start engaging the language as soon as possible.

2.2.2. Grammar

The traditional method of learning a language requires a lot of time in that phase but I think a few weeks can teach you the basics you need to start speaking.

2.2.3. Immersion

That is the most important part. Immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn and that is especially true when it comes to languages. It allows you to learn words and expressions in context which helps with both understanding and speaking.

Here are a few ways to immerse:

• Travel to a country where they speak English
• Hang around people who speak English
• Watch tv shows in English and with English subtitles, if possible
• Listen to music in English
• Read books and blog posts in English

Here are a few tips:

• Focus on the things that you’re interested in
  It’s easier to read an article in English if the topic interests you.
• Take your time
  Learning another language is not always easy so don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
• Practice often
• Don’t worry about sounding like a beginner
• Don’t compare yourself to other people

Here are some interesting articles:

https://allrightchoices.com/2017/05/03/learning-a-new-language-in-1-year-from-nothing-to-fluent/

https://aliabdaal.com/activerecallstudytechnique/

https://aliabdaal.com/the-beginners-mindset/