Second Language Learning anxiety! That’s something that can seriously stall your motivation and ability to learn a second language – in fact, it’s probably the only thing. Overcoming second language learning anxiety is the first step to becoming a fluent Spanish speaker.
#1 - Belief That the Advanced Years are the Problem – There is a common belief that “children have a better ability to learn than adults”. The truth is, children are more adaptable than adults simply because they don’t have experience in life. Children can speak langauges earlier in their life because they’ve started early in their life!
Adults are much more able to learn a second language faster than a child! Adults are mentally more developed, and are more than capable of speaking a language such as a child.
#2 - Do Not Believe They are Fit – When people do something, they must be able to envision themselves doing it. Many people simply do not believe that they are mentally capable of learning a second language.
They may believe that it’s “too good to be true”, or that “It’s too late in life to begin learning”. There are people of the age of 70+ who learn languages simply because they believe. If you can believe you are fit, then you probably are. The main thing a person must do to start learning Spanish is to start!
#3 - The Competitive Nature of Learners – Many learners are highly competitive. When they see someone speaking fluent Spanish with ease, it can be rather discouraging. Also, when the teacher asks questions which require hard answers – people can also be rather discouraged.
It is important for an aspiring learner to find a relaxed environment in which to learn in. These can be online software’s, online classes, step-by-step cd’s, or even podcasts which give you Spanish lessons. Whichever one you choose, just be sure to find a method that suites your comfort level.
Developing a Self-Image & Motivating Yourself
Self Image is a common problem as well as self-motivation. A great thing that you can do is to find a commercially available product that is dedicated to teaching people the Spanish langauge.
There are many products out there that are dedicated to making the Spanish learning process easy, fun, entertaining, and effective.
You will also want to work on your self-image as well. Envision yourself becoming a Spanish speaker. Keep telling yourself that one day you will be a Spanish speaker, and most of all – try to learn in a relaxed environment before you immerse yourself in a complete Spanish speaking environment.
And remember this: Once you become a fluent Spanish speaker – You will have a much easier time learning other languages such as French and Italian because they are related!
