1. It’s a new year, we all have this January motivation and energy which can go a long way.
2. Something new is always exciting, you buy new books/apps for your studying like you would buy new clothes if take up yoga. Learning a language is a good excuse to buy new DVDs in this language, or borrow some at the French Institute if you’re learning French.
3. Knowing a new language will not only impress your friends and entourage but also yourself. You’ll be amazed at what you can do and the positive consequences it has.
4. You’ll meet new friends. London is full of events where you can meet native speakers whilst, at the same time make new business contacts or meet a new girlfriend/boyfriend (Internations, Franglish: www.london.franglish.eu/en/home)
5. It’s good for your brain. Learning a language is challenging but rewarding. You’ll practice the gymnastics of verbs and your memory by learning new vocabulary. It doesn’t have to be boring. Your teacher can show you apps and website that you’ll be able to use on your own.
6. If you were stuck for ideas for your next holiday, the solution is here: why not go to Québec or Morocco to speak French and Japan for your Japanese? Different and not necessarily expensive. The Yen is down, or so I’ve heard.
7. You’ll be surrounded by other motivated people as everyone is taking up something new in January. And of course, you’ll be the one who carries on beyond February, because you’re not a quitter!
8. Be original, it doesn’t have to be French. I took up Greek a few years ago and never looked back. It really helps when you go to Greece and gets you a certain kind of respect and better service.
9. Never underestimate the power of a new language. You’ll understand conversations in the train, will have new work opportunities, will understand food labels, songs, articles your foreign friends post on social media, and last but not least, will discover new things in your native language (weird but true). It’s a new life experience as you will broaden your horizons on so many levels.
10. It usually snows in January so what could be better than watching a foreign DVD or drink a glass of vin whilst practising your new vocabulary with your encouraging other half?
