The Journey of Learning Multiple Languages

 How to Choose the Right Language for You

Before diving into learning a new language, it’s very helpful to do a little “test” for yourself. Spend about a week exploring the language—listen to it, try to learn a few words, and see how easy or difficult it feels. Pay attention to how your brain reacts when you hear the sounds and try to remember new words or phrases. Compare this experience with other languages you might be interested in. This simple exercise can give you insight into which languages suit your natural learning style and which might require more effort. It can save you time and frustration in the long run.

In my school, we study two foreign languages, and I had the opportunity to learn Russian and English. Although I have been learning Russian for about six years, I must admit that most of what I really know now, I actually learned in the last two years. This experience taught me that language learning is not always a linear process — everyone has their own pace, and progress can come in waves.

Language Families and Personal Predispositions

It is a fact that every person is naturally predisposed to learn certain language groups more easily. For example, Serbian and Russian belong to the same main language family — the Slavic languages — so Russian feels more natural and familiar to me. Because of this, knowing Russian makes it much easier for me to learn other Slavic languages like Polish and Ukrainian. Similarly, if someone is a native speaker of Italian or any other Romance language, they will generally find it easier to learn other languages in the same family, such as Spanish, French, or Portuguese.

On the other hand, Germanic languages didn’t come as easily to me, even though I tried to listen to and learn them carefully.

“To have another language is to possess a second soul.”

— Charlemagne

Interestingly, I found that languages like Arabic and Greek, which are technically very difficult, actually came easier to me than I expected. This may be because I have had a deep love for Greek culture and people since childhood. Even though Greek is spoken in only two countries, it became very dear to me. This shows how personal interest and cultural connection can make learning easier and more enjoyable.

The Importance of Personal Motivation and Learning Methods

Learning a language is much more than just memorizing words and rules. It’s important to pay attention to what truly attracts you — whether that’s culture, music, movies, or travel. For example, Spanish is often considered an “easy” language, but many people struggle with it simply because they haven’t found the right learning method for themselves.

There are different ways to learn: audio (listening), visual (watching), and kinesthetic (doing, moving). Some people learn best by listening, some through interaction, and others through a combination of different methods. It’s important to find what suits your style.

Grammar as the Foundation

Grammar can be the most difficult part of language learning, but it’s also essential. Without a solid grasp of basic grammar — like verb tenses or cases — it’s hard to use vocabulary correctly. However, grammar is often easiest to learn through communication and practice rather than memorization alone.

The Journey of Learning Is What Matters Most

The process of studying a language is just as important as the result. Learning a language is a long journey, and the best way to succeed is to make it enjoyable and fun. When you treat language learning as a pleasant experience — something you look forward to rather than a chore — progress comes more naturally. Being patient with yourself and celebrating small victories along the way keeps motivation high and makes the whole process rewarding.

Breaking the Myth: Talent Isn’t Everything

It’s a common myth that only talented people can learn languages. However, research shows that dedication, the right methods, and consistent practice matter much more than innate talent. Anyone can learn a language if they approach it with the right mindset and tools.

My experience taught me that everyone has their own unique way and speed of learning languages. The key is to find what motivates you and what works best for your learning style. With patience, love for the language, and the right methods, anyone can master a new language and open doors to new worlds.

Nena

“The limits of my language mean the limits of my world.” 

— Ludwig Wittgenstein