Language learning can be tough especially when you have so many other things to do or you’re struggling with motivation.

Here are my 5 tips to stay motivated:

1 - Remember your ‘why’

It is easy to get lost in a pile of vocabulary or exam papers. If motivation is lacking, it’s good to remind yourself of your ‘why’.

What can you achieve in the future if you reach your language target? How travelling will be easier in the future with better English or what career goals can you meet with new found fluency?

2 - (Re) Set a goal

I love ticking off items on my ‘to-do’ list and having a goal to work towards definitely helps our focus. Goals are individual and don’t have to be huge achievements - throughout my language learning journey I have had big goals such as passing TELC B2 German but my current goal is to practice basic Japanese on a daily basis so my upcoming trip to Tokyo will be easier and more fun!

Examples of goals could be:

Daily practice - set yourself a challenge to practice a language for 15 minutes a day.

Learn 3 new idioms a week.

Join a language group and make contact with native speakers.

Also review your goals regularly, are they still relevant to you or do you need to revise them?

3 - Make it fun with friends

Whether it’s your hobby or you are a serious learner for business / study purposes, make learning fun! Study with a friend or language tandem partner - try language games or apps instead of text books and endless grammar exercises (of course these are important too but don’t be afraid to mix it up a little).

4 - Take a break

If you are tired or burnt out then taking a break is absolutely necessary - if learning is your hobby taking a few days off is totally fine. If you are working to a strict deadline a long break might not be possible but you can schedule breaks into your study plan. Break down your studying in to small chunks and achievable mini goals.

A more general tip is ‘get some sleep’ no one can function properly without sufficient sleep!

5 - Try new ways of learning

What new things can you try?

Technology is a great way to explore new ideas - Have you asked ChatGPT a language question? Follow new language accounts on tiktok or instagram! Watch a new show on Netflix or cool video on youtube, youku or bilibili

A broad range of activities and learning strategies will help you succeed while having fun!

If you need some help with learning English or want to practice in a relaxed and fun environment, get in touch!