There’s no denying how the world has become increasingly more connected over the last few decades, with the help of the internet and faster modes of travel. Yet it seems we neglect the opportunity to converse with people in other countries in casual conversation. In our post-covid world we should be leaping at the chance to learn of other countries and their culture’s, and what better way to do it than learning their language!
Most Americans are content with speaking only English, as English is common for other countries to learn for international communication. It's also the most widely-spoken language in the world. It serves as a bridge of communication for tourists, businessmen and women, and politicians to unify. But there are no downsides to learning another language, in fact, it can be eye-opening to discover what comes out of the process.
History plays an important part in the interest of learning a language. If you study Russian history; the dystopian, harsh reality that the people of the soviet union experienced, it’s almost the necessary next step to immerse yourself in their language and speak with those that went through that fascinating portion of history. Being able to learn firsthand in a way that could not be properly conveyed through translation should be a driving force in your decision.
Take the Latin countries for example. There’s over 350 languages still spoken today in Latin America that can be learned online. Spanish is most recognizable, since we all grew up learning some Spanish here and there, or in school.
Let’s say you wanted to visit Buenos Aires and experience for yourself the food, where Argentina is known for its barbeque, or Asado, and be able to order without looking like a dull tourist. Even the casual bar-side conversation with locals will become more enriching and memorable if you’re able to ask specific questions and understand the stories that come with being familiar with the language.
The most rewarding part is the appreciation the native speakers have that someone from another country shows enough interest in their history and culture to be able to speak with anyone from that place. Youtuber, Xiaomanyc, is famous for drawing joyful reactions from people living in America who’s first language isn’t something they hear everyday from most Americans.
Teaching yourself how to speak another language not only helps you talk to other people, it also helps your brain. It's shown (by science that I'll never understand) that learning a new language develops new neural pathways, strengthens existing networks, and helps improve your ability to focus. This is something we could all benefit from in a world where our attention spans have been reduced to 6 seconds or less.
Whichever language you choose, it's important to know that it is time well-spent. Think about where in the world you most want to visit, and if you have the luxury to travel there, it will enrich you experience immensely. This ability will open doors you may not have even known existed; job opportunities, meeting new people, or having something else to talk about when someone inevitably asks you at the next family gathering, "So, what's new with you?".