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Language Learning Tips for Anyone Who’s Ever Doubted Themselves: An Interview with Nomadic Matt

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language learning tips - Nomadic Matt Interview
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You don’t need a special gene to learn languages. Anyone can do it. Matt Kepnes from Nomadic Matt shares his best language learning tips for beginners

We’ve all been there. At one point in our lives we’ve said to ourselves we want to learn a foreign language but haven’t. Either we were disappointed by our slow progress or had trouble even getting started because we’re too busy to learn a language. The desire is there, but for some reason, we’ve placed the idea of speaking a second language on a pedestal so high that we see it as something only attainable by polyglots, or the young, or fill in the blank…

This is, of course, a bunch of nonsense.

There is no credible evidence to show that the older one becomes, the more difficult it is to learn a foreign language.

This belief stemmed from the theory on “brain development” in the 1960’s that taught that there was a “crucial period” (ie. before puberty) an individual had before the brain lost its “plasticity,” making learning a second language too difficult. (Lenneberg, 1967).

In fact, modern studies have shown that even though there are some differences between how a child and an adult learns a second language, the older learner has many distinct advantages.

Did you hear that? You have the advantage!

Today on the blog, I interview Matt Kepnes from Nomadic Matt (who published a book on travelling the world on $50 a day) to share his own struggles with learning languages how he works to overcome them.

Here is my interview with Matt.

language learning tips - Nomadic Matt Interview

Matt Kepnes from Nomadic Matt

How would you describe your relationship with languages and language learning?

I’ll admit that languages have never been my strong suit. I have a strong desire to learn, but that doesn’t always translate into ability (mostly because I don’t practice as much as I should!). It’s very easy as an English speaker so just rely on others to speak English, and while it’s very helpful knowing that I can pretty much go anywhere and get by, it’s not the most authentic or respectful way to travel.

So while I’ve dabbled in Spanish, Swedish, French, and Thai, I always try to learn a few phrases when I go somewhere. I wish I could just snap my fingers and learn a new language, but since I am always working or on the road, it’s hard to get into a routine to learn. But I’ll get there, one day!

Language is such an important part of travel, which languages can you speak and how did you learn them?

Aside from English, I learned some Spanish in school (but I was never very good!). I’ve pretty much forgotten all the French I had a tutor teach me, but I know some Thai and some Swedish. Could I read or write a book in either language? Not a chance! But I know enough phrases and enough words to get by. I can have simple conversations, which is a good place to start.

When I was in Thailand years ago I started to learn the language. I was there for an extended period, so it seemed like a good way to better understand the culture and to start the transition from “traveller” to “local.” It’s definitely not an easy language, but I made some progress!

As for Swedish, a few years ago I had plans to move there so I started to study the language. I never ended up staying more than a few months, but I still actually practice to this day (though not as diligently as I should!).

Locals will treat you different if they see you speaking some of their language. It shows them that you respect their culture enough to invest time in it. It lets you peel back another layer of a destination to better understand it.

How do you prepare for a trip to a non-English speaking country?

When it comes to the language, I’ll download the offline language pack from Google Translate. That will let me have access to Google Translate no matter if I have internet access or not. From there, I’ll learn some basic words and phrases. If they are particularly tricky, I’ll write them out in my notebook so I have a more phonetic guide.

Once I arrive, I’ll ask for some other important words from the hostel staff. They are great for teaching you simple slang words (or important words like “cheers”) which you can use when you interact with locals.

Just doing these small things will show the people there that you’re interested in their language and culture. It will help open doors and spark conversations that might not have occurred otherwise. So spend the time and learn some words. Ask questions from locals — it’s a great way to start to soak in the culture.

What are your favourite language learning tools and resources?

For a basic introduction to a language, Duolingo is a great place to start. From there, italki is a solid next step that will let you have more elaborate conversations and work on improving problems areas with your tutor.


Author’s note: To supplement my own language learning I personally use italki multiple times every week. This is where I get 1-to-1 support and speaking practice with a qualified teacher or community tutor. Read my full italki review here and book your first italki lesson here.


I’ll also hire a tutor if I really want to dig into a language. Sure, it’s not cheap, but it’s fun and more engaging than any app will ever be. You can also learn a lot about your destination from a tutor, beyond the language. Things like cultural norms, traditions, as well as insider places to visit.

language learning tips - Nomadic Matt Interview

Matt exploring the beautiful castles in France

How has knowing even a little bit of the local language enhanced your travel experiences?

Locals will treat you different if they see you speaking some of their language. It shows them that you respect their culture enough to invest time in it. It lets you peel back another layer of a destination to better understand it. And it can help you avoid getting ripped off, too. For example, if you can read basic numbers in a language you’ll be able to read the prices on a menu. That way, if someone tries to overcharge you, you’ll be able to see it and avoid it. So not only is learning some language fun but it can also save you money. So if you’re preparing for a trip, definitely learn some phrases.


Planning a trip? Get my free travel phrase guides here.


What has been the most amazing intercultural experience you’ve had because of speaking another language?

I think it’s just the little things. When you walk into a grocery store and ask how much something is in the local language and the person looks pleasantly surprised you know their language, or when you go to the bar and confidently order a beer in the language and don’t mess it up. Or when you ask for directions and actually understand what was said. For me, it’s these little things that make learning a language fun. They are real-world tests that prove your studying has paid off. Sure, my accent may be horrible, but these experiences remind me that languages aren’t impossible to learn. Like everything else, they just take some hard work and dedication.

How do you maintain your language skills?

This is a constant struggle! With so much on my plate, I have a hard time keeping up with my practice. Sure, I can mess around on Duolingo here and there and I can meet with a tutor for 1 hour a week…but that’s not going to be enough — especially if you want to stay fresh in a couple of languages.

For me, the key is just returning to those places. I go to Bangkok quite often so I can always dive in and brush up while I’m there. It’s much more challenging doing that, but it’s also more immersive so things will come back to me as I go. Just like riding a bike. I’m in Sweden often, too, so I do the same there. But it’s tough getting ahead. Most of the time, I’m just keeping my skills where they are instead of progressing. But that’s better than nothing!

I’ll be the first to admit that saying you’re bad at languages is a cop-out. What it really means (and what I mean when I say it) is that I just haven’t invested the time or found a way of learning that resonates with me.

What would be your advice to someone who is learning a foreign language for the first time?

Fortunately, it’s never been easier to learn a language. There are so many apps and resources online that there is really no excuse. I would suggest you start out with Duolingo and just dedicate 15-30 minutes each day to get yourself started and into a routine. Eventually, you can replace that time with italki. When you’re feeling good about things, try a tutor. See how learning with someone compares to learning on a laptop. If you like it better, take a lesson every week to supplement your self-study.

The key here is repetition. Study every day, even if it’s just for 5-10 minutes. Consistency is what will get you ahead. But also be sure to look for learning hacks as another way to improve your efficiency and skills!

Have a specific goal in mind and work at it daily. It’s a slow process, but if you stick with it you’ll definitely find it a rewarding one!

As someone who once said “I’ve always been bad at languages”, what advice would you give those who feel the same way?

I’ll be the first to admit that saying you’re bad at languages is a cop-out. What it really means (and what I mean when I say it) is that I just haven’t invested the time or found a way of learning that resonates with me.

Just because you’re not naturally gifted and able to speak 12 languages does not mean you’re bad at languages. It just means you need to invest in it. You need to spend time on a daily basis and apply consistent pressure. Just like going to the gym, if you want to get in shape you can’t just work out once a week or once a month. Yeah, that’s a great start but if you want real results you need to work out often. You need to make it a priority. The same goes for languages. Have a specific goal in mind and work at it daily. It’s a slow process, but if you stick with it you’ll definitely find it a rewarding one!

Conclusion

Firstly, I want to say a big thanks to Matt for sharing his own personal challenges with learning languages. I hope this interview has inspired you. I think the biggest takeaway here is that anyone can learn and speak a foreign language confidently.

Remember, we all start in the same boat, so to speak, you just need to find what learning techniques and language resources resonate with the most and get your fired up about the whole learning process. Mix that will a bit of patience and dedication and you will learn any language you desire.

Ready to start learning a new language? Here are expert tips from 11 polyglots who will kickstart you in the right direction.


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Language learning tips - Nomadic Matt Interview


Want to know more about learning languages? Start here!


Over to you!

Are you struggling with learning a foreign language? Has this interview with Matt helped or inspired you to start learning a new language? What piece of advice resonated with you the most? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.
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