In my final year of high school every Friday a period was dedicated our headmaster. He looked and acted a lot like the dark Sith Emperor from Star Wars. He pretty much commanded respect and we were expected to listen. Anyway, our headmaster would lecture us on current events and things that he thought were important . Sometimes we would have guest speakers come in and talk about AIDS, charities, Australia’s bid for the Olympics, the fall of the Berlin Wall and another important events or subjects.
On one particular occasion our headmaster dicussed with us the importance of learning a second language. I can’t really remember the points he made, but I do remember that he was very passionate about it. What was interesting was he couldn’t speak a second language, and not learning one had been when he was young was one of his biggest regrets. It was also one of the few times that he opened up and shared a part of himself.
Several years later I was working in the hospitality industry. We had many Japanese tourists staying at the hotel where I worked. I decided to learn Japanese thinking it would lead to career progression in my industry. I’m glad I made that decision. It changed my life and has given me many opportunities to grow and learn. So I want to move the mojo forward and encourage you to learn Japanese or another language.
So, here are my 7 reasons why you should learn a second language:
Employment and Business Prospects
With the world getting smaller and more connected each passing year having a second language under your belt definately gives you a competative advantage in the workplace and business world. For example, many jobs positions in the tourist industry require staff to speak a second language like Japanese, Korean or Chinese. I make money online from several websites referring or selling my Japanese language learning information products.
Make the Most of Your Traveling
I believe everyone should travel for an extended period of time outside their home country. And to make the most of traveling in a forgein land having language skills certainly helps. Being proficient in the native language removes a lot of the uncertainty, risk and fear involved when traveling. It will also open up the door for some exciting cultural opportunities and moments that you would normally never experience as a tourist.
Cultural Understanding and Appreciation
For me learning Japanese has introduced me to an amazingly unique and unusual culture. Before learning Japanese I had many assumptions about the kind of people Japanese were and the life they lead. Soon after learning the language and visiting Japan I discovered most of my assumptions were wrong or greatly exaggreated. Learning Japanese and living in Japan also made me appreciate my Australian culture more.
Family Roots
Another important reason as to why you soon learn a language is personal heritage. There is probably and good chance that one or both your parents was born in a different country to you . If not perhaps one of your grandparents. If not, someone in your family tree. You also may have foreign friends who would love to share their language and culture with you. For many people exploring their roots has been a very transformative and life changing experience.
Friends of an International Flavor
Lacking for friends? If you are feeling lonely and want build some great friends start learning a second language. You could visit your local community centre and make plenty of friends with other people wanting to learn a language. Also, you could join and language club or International social group. The exchange of culture brings out the best in people. You never know what could happen. I feel in love with a Japanese girl and married her.
Volunteer and Charity Work
If you enjoy helping others then learning a language could be the perfect endeavor for you.. With more and more refugees seeking asylum in safe countries like Australia, England and the U.S the chance to welcome and help people relocate to a new country in their native language would be an incredible act of kindness and hospitality. Learning a foreign language to provide help to people who need it most could be one of the greatest acts of charity.
For the Fun of it
Learning a language can be lots of fun. Sure, there is study and expenses involve, but communicating with people in a different language is a blast. I sometime took my Japanese study too seriously, thinking I had to be the perfect speaker and learn thousands of kanji.
I hope you found at least one reason that resonated with you. Learning a language is like taking a journey that never ends. Each new word is a step taking you to bigger and better world. A world where you can discover, exchange and find a different perspective on life.
