For many people, the idea of learning a foreign language is both exciting and intimidating, especially if the thought brings back memories of learning a second language in middle school or high school.
The truth is that learning a foreign language is a lot easier than most people expect particularly if you follow these tips which I have discovered after a lifetime of helping other people learn everything from Japanese and Arabic to German and French.
1. Make mistakes. The way to learn a new language is by making errors. Thats right; your success will come from repeatedly failing. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and you will learn more than you ever dreamed possible.
2. Look for words your native tongue has in common with the new language you want to learn. For example, the word for American is Americano in Spanish, Amricain in French and Americano in Italian and Portuguese. Interesting is interesante in Spanish, Italian and Portuguese and interessant in French. The words for chocolate and caf also fit this pattern. Recognizing words that are familiar to you will help you build your new vocabulary faster.
3. Take chances. When you attempt to...