How I became a polyglot CLEARED MY DEPRESSION

I often see people online sharing their "polyglot tips and tricks" and how they learned all their languages, and most of the time, those tips are so vague and do not help anyone at all. It's also annoying to see that a lot of polyglots only became polyglots because they took a flamboyant photo with another polyglot who inspired them and then became a polyglot as well. <br><br>I think that I'm a good candidate to share tips because I'm a polyglot who has struggled and beaten depression, which was a long and grueling process. The palette of tips that I share below are actually very useful tips mixed with the understanding of struggle, and it's a topic that I haven't really seen discussed. <br><br>Finding Meaning and Purpose<br><br>To begin with, I'd like to talk about my own experience with depression. I struggled with it for a long time, and at one point, I even attempted suicide. Luckily, my doctor gave me a follow up appointment about a month after my attempt and told me to take a few weeks off work. I took his advice and went to the beach for 2 weeks. One day, I felt inspired to learn Romanian by watching a romanticised polyglot's channel on YouTube. It was at this moment that my desire to learn English and Persian was reignited, and I decided to start with Romanian as it was a language I had never studied before. I packed my bags and went back to Bucharest, and I did not return to work for 6 months. I took a leap of faith, and it paid off. I found a job as a teacher, and I'm on track to making my life better, not worse. This experience taught me that when we're depressed, we should try new things to find what makes us happy.<br><br>Three skills: 3 weeks - 3 months<br><br>When it comes to learning a new language, it's essential to first assess your current level. Have you ever noticed how there are usually 3 skills that you are good at, and 3 skills that you are bad at? For example, I can write in English, but I struggle with listening. I can also talk, but I'm not good at reading. Begin by listing your skills and categorizing them into easy, medium, and hard. Then, focus on the 3 skills that you struggle with the most. For 3 weeks to 3 months, dedicate your time to improving those skills. Don't worry about grammar at this stage; just focus on getting better at communication. For instance, for listening, watch a TV show or movie with subtitles in the target language, and then gradually move to watching without subtitles. You can also watch TV shows or movies in your native language with subtitles in the target language. For speaking, practice speaking with a tutor or language exchange partner for 15 minutes a day.<br><br>Grammar and Vocabulary<br><br>Once you have improved your weakest skills, it's time to focus on grammar and vocabulary. Learn the grammar rules and practice them through speaking with a tutor, language exchange partner, or by writing. To expand your vocabulary, use flashcards and learn new words every day. Try to learn 10-15 new words a day, and it's helpful to create flashcards with the word on one side and the translation on the other. You can also use language learning apps like Duolingo or Anki.<br><br>Memorisation techniques<br><br>Now, let's talk about memorisation techniques. One technique is to make connections between words. For example, if you're learning a word that sounds similar to a word in your native language, make a mental connection between the two words. Another technique is to use visualisation. If you're learning a word that is associated with a visual image, try to picture that image in your mind. You can also use rhymes, songs, or associations with personal experiences to help you remember words.<br><br>Pronunciation<br><br>Pronunciation is a crucial aspect of language learning, and it's often overlooked. Listen to native speakers and try to mimic their pronunciation. Practice speaking with a tutor or language exchange partner and ask for feedback on your pronunciation. You can also record yourself speaking and listen to the recording to identify areas where you need to improve.<br><br>Language Immersion<br><br>Language immersion is a powerful tool for language learning. Surround yourself with the language as much as possible. Watch TV shows and movies in the target language, listen to music, read books and newspapers, and speak with native speakers. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the faster you will learn.<br><br>Language Learning Apps<br><br>Language learning apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone can be helpful tools for language learning. They offer interactive lessons, quizzes, and exercises to help you learn grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. However, keep in mind that apps should be used in conjunction with other language learning methods, such as speaking with native speakers, listening to music, and reading books.<br><br>Consistency and Perseverance<br><br>Consistency and perseverance are key to language learning. Set achievable goals and stick to them. Make language learning a part of your daily routine, even if it's just for a few minutes a day. Don't get discouraged if you make mistakes or struggle to understand certain concepts. Keep practicing, and you will see progress over time.<br><br>Language Exchange<br><br>Language exchange is a great way to practice speaking and listening with a native speaker. You can find language exchange partners online or in-person. Try to find someone who is fluent in the language you want to learn and who is also interested in learning your native language. This way, you can practice speaking and listening with each other.<br><br>In conclusion, learning a language takes time, effort, and practice. Focus on improving your weakest skills, learn grammar and vocabulary, use memorisation techniques, practice pronunciation, immerse yourself in the language, use language learning apps, and be consistent and persevering. With dedication and hard work, you can become a polyglot and enjoy the many benefits that come with it.