Learning a new language sounds like a lot of hard work for many people, but have you ever thought of the benefits of being able to speak several languages? In this hyper-connected, fast-paced world, there is a need to keep up with the trends. You will develop unique advantages and help yourself stand out in this modern world if you can learn at least one foreign language.
Learning a new language comes with a wider array of benefits than you may realise. If you want to get a bigger picture of the benefits involved, you may need to examine them from the other side. Read along for more insights.
1. Helps Establish Cross-Cultural Friendships and Deep Connection
Once in your lifetime, you might have encountered someone from a culture different from yours. Unfortunately, you were unable to communicate or experience the moment in its fullness because of the language barrier. Maybe you later realised that the experience could have been enriched if you understood the other person’s language.
This is just a representative scenario of the many instances that pass us by, and we miss the chance to make friends or deep connections. While you cannot possibly learn every language on the planet or understand every culture, it would help to learn at least about a culture you are interested in and then make deep connections with the people from that culture.
2. Learn About Your Own Culture from an Outside Perspective
By learning a new culture, you can see your own culture from the perspective of other people. Culture and language are inherently intertwined, and once you have insights into another language, you will “ride on a different bus” and get to view your own “bus” from an exterior position.
Learning a new language will help you stop questioning the truths about other cultures. Once you step outside your narrow scope, your mind will open up to a new perspective, and it is unlikely that you will slip back into the same narrow-minded opinion.
3. Open Job opportunities
You can improve your chances of advancing your career in a different territory if you can understand the local language. Employers get attracted to people who take their time to acquire new skills.
Speaking two languages can enhance your career opportunities, not just as a freelancer or an independent worker. Companies are looking to hire globally minded people who are conversant in at least one foreign language.
4. Sharpen Your Brain
Learning a new language is tough, and the process helps condition your brain and boost memory. The functionality of your brain is enhanced through recognition and negotiation of meanings. The skill of learning a new language also helps in negotiating in other tasks as well. Students tend to score better on standardised tests when they have learned a new language.
Learning a new language also has the effect of improving memory, making you more alert, and improving your decision-making skills. Multilingual people are better in observing their surrounding and making sense out of them. They also tend to focus on more relevant information.
Conclusion
Learning a new language and being multilingual comes with its fair share of benefits. Learning Korean in Singapore, for example, will make you a better individual at interacting with people and the environment. You will see your culture from a different perspective, and better your chances of advancing your career path in a new territory. Plan to enrol for Korean courses in Singapore and enjoy the benefits.