5 reasons to learn a new language
In our new weekly feature we explore the benefits of learning a new language especially because of the recent discussion raised by the Prime Minister that Spanish should become the nation’s second language, which intern raised a few eyebrows among the citizens of Jamaica. Learning a new language may not be easy, but it definitely has a lot of benefits. Here are five reasons why learning a new language isn’t such a bad idea:
1. An individual who is fluent in more than one language can pose as an excellent commodity to any organization, whether locally or internationally. The world is changing fast and learning a new language can improve your employment prospects. Most companies today perform businesses in several other countries hence, the demand for a more versatile individual becomes high – one who is well versed in at least one foreign language.
2. Ever heard the saying ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’? Well, similarly, speaking a second language a day can keep the doctor away. Studies have proven that learning a new language helps with memory improvement, aids in achieving a longer attention span and decreases the chance of attaining other brain related illnesses.
3. Persons who know more than one language are better able to experience different cultures. To have culture means to be more knowledgeable and aids in one being more culturally relative rather than the ethnocentric viewpoint most individuals seem to take. Fluency in another language simply means you’ll be more cultured because this would allow you to travel more often, enabling you to know the world better.
4. Learning a foreign language is also an excellent way to boost your confidence. It allows you find out more about yourself and enables you to interact with new people. Also, the positive feedback you would get from the native speakers and their encouragement is good motivation and a great ego booster
5. Believe it or not, learning a new language can improve your decision making skills. A study from the University of Chicago confirmed that bilinguals are more confident with their choices after thinking it over in their second language. Sounds strange right? However, this may help you to make wiser choices in areas such as finance for example.