Top 5 Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Learning a foreign language is not just a nice to have. In addition to being a fascinating pastime, it also provides a vast array of benefits that go well beyond the obvious speaking another language . Learning another language can benefit you on many levels from developing your brain functions to boosting your career. Below I have highlighted the top 5 benefits that learning a second language can bring.

Improves your brain power

Your brain will benefit vastly if you embark on learning a foreign language. Brain cells are stimulated in new ways and new neural connections are formed. Here are just some of the benefits that a new language can bring to your brain functions

o Better decision-making skills

o More creativity

o Improved memory

o Increased attention span

o Helps to keep dementia at bay

Follow the links for evidence of these claims.

Increases your self-confidence

Learning and mastering a new skill will provide you with a confidence boost. In addition, it will push you out of your comfort zone as you will want to talk to native speakers and others who speak your new language, which means your confidence grows.

Improves your career

Employers love job seekers with good language skills. It opens up a whole new range of jobs that you wouldn t be eligible for otherwise.

Makes learning further languages easier

Once you speak one additional language, learning any further languages becomes easier and easier. When you learn your second language you develop a set of skills that can be used for any subsequent languages. Your brain will be ready for them.

In addition, your first language skills are also improved. When learning a foreign language, you are made aware of language structure, grammar, syntax and so on. All these things are picked up instinctively when you first learn to speak as a small child. When learning a second language, it is a more structured approach, that will help you understand your own language better and even increase your first language vocabulary.

Improves networking skills

Learning a language opens your mind to new experiences. As part of learning a language you always learn about other cultures as well. This enables you to see the world through different eyes and from different points of view which in turn helps you to communicate with a wider variety of people. This will help you to make connections more easily.