7 Habits to Learn a New Language on Auto-Pilot

Learning a new language can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not a fan of traditional studying methods like sitting with a textbook and taking notes. Fortunately, there are several ways to learn a language on auto-pilot, making it easier and more enjoyable. Below are seven habits that can help you learn a new language effortlessly.

Pick a Language to Learn

The first step in learning a new language is to choose one to learn. Consider if there is a language that you have always wanted to learn or if learning a particular language would be more beneficial given your current location and life plans. Once you’ve decided on a language, you can start implementing the following habits to learn it effortlessly.

Watch TV Shows/Movies in Target Language with Subtitles

Watching TV shows and movies in your target language with subtitles can improve your language skills. While watching, you’ll be exposed to the language’s sentence structures, pronunciation, accents, and vocabulary. Commit to substituting some of your TV time with shows and movies in your target language, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in your language skills over time. If you have trouble accessing content in your chosen language, try subscribing to sites like Netflix through a proxy or while on vacation in a country where the language is spoken.

Intentionally Hang Out with People Who Speak Your Target Language

Spending time with people who speak the language you’re trying to learn is an excellent way to improve your skills. You’ll have the chance to practice speaking, listening, and understanding the language in contexts beyond the classroom. Attend international events or events for people interested in your target language and country, or initiate get-togethers with individuals you meet.

Journal or Blog in Your Target Language

Journaling or blogging in your target language is an effective way to improve writing and grammar skills. Consider using a service like lang-8 to write random things and get your writing corrected by native speakers. You’ll get ample practice using the language and memorizing vocabulary and grammar, while native speakers will point out your mistakes, helping you learn from them. If you’re self-conscious about sharing your thoughts publicly, start by writing privately for yourself and transition to sharing your work as you improve.

Change Operating Languages to Your Target Language

Changing the language of your computer or phone’s interface to your target language forces you to interact with the language multiple times daily. You’ll be exposed to basic vocabulary, even if you don’t understand the language entirely, and this will help you retain it better.

Play Games in Your Target Language

Playing games in your target language can be a fun way to learn it. If you play online games, consider looking for groups of people in your target language to play with to practice speaking and understanding the language. If you play offline games, change the game’s language if possible. Even though the context is leisure, a lot of dialogue is used in games, providing an excellent opportunity to memorize basic vocabulary and grammar.

Study Vocabulary During Pockets of Time

There’s a lot of downtime during any given day, whether waiting for the bus, on the train, or sitting on the toilet, hoping for something to happen. Use this time to study vocabulary on your phone or make flashcards. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Quizlet offer great language learning tools that are both effective and convenient.

Advanced: Read Books in Your Target Language

Reading books in your target language can significantly improve your skills. However, the key is commitment. Consistent reading in your target language can transform your skills in a matter of weeks. Start small and work your way up by reading short stories or novels that interest you.

Advanced: Think in Your Target Language

If you don’t have enough opportunities to converse with native speakers, try thinking in your target language. It’s an excellent way to test your grammar skills and notice gaps in your vocabulary. Start with basic conversation topics and work your way up to more complex subjects.

Implement Multiple Habits to Learn a Language on Auto-Pilot

Learning a new language on auto-pilot is possible by consistently implementing these seven habits. While you’ll likely see noticeable results with one or two habits, you’ll see the best and fastest results if you implement multiple habits into your daily routine. Commitment and consistency are key to making a difference, and soon you’ll be learning your new language without even trying that hard.