Staying motivated with your English learning

Why are you learning English?

Take a moment and really think about it. Is it because you want to study abroad? Is it because you want to move to an English-speaking country? Is it because the job you want requires you to speak English?

Let me ask you again: why are you learning English?

Motivation is the force that causes someone to do something. It's important to remember WHY you're learning English because that will be the push you need to continue learning. When you try something (anything) for the first time, you often feel very passionate about it at the beginning, and that passion drives you to keep doing it. For example, I recently took up calligraphy because I wanted to learn how to write in a more beautiful way. My interest in it is what motivated me to continue with it. At the beginning of your English journey, perhaps you felt this way too. You were passionate about learning English, and that is what motivated you to keep going.

However, there will be days when you want to give up. This happens to most people. Your passion might start to fade a little bit. Maybe it's because you are trying to learn English on your own and you're starting to struggle. Maybe it's because you aren't improving as quickly as you would like. Maybe it's because you're busy doing other things and you simply don't have the time to dedicate to it.

Here are some ways to stay motivated with your English learning, even when you don't feel like it:

1. Remember your why. There is a reason why you first started to learn English. Remind yourself of that reason as often as possible, and that will give you the push that you need to stay committed to your English learning, no matter how challenging it gets! Write it down on a piece of paper and put it on your door, your mirror, or your desk so you won't forget it!

2. Find an accountability partner. An accountability partner is someone who keeps you accountable to something, someone who checks that you are doing what you said you want to do. This can be someone close to you, such as a family member or friend, or it can be someone in the English learning community, such as a speaking partner or a fellow English learner. It's okay to learn English by yourself, but tell others about it so they can help you stay on track!

3. Try learning in a different way. Sometimes sticking to one method of learning can become repetitive and boring. Try out different methods of learning English to mix things up! Experiment with different textbooks, activities, T.V. shows, novels, etc. and see which ones make you the most excited to continue improving your English.

You can always contact me if you're interested in taking my English classes, but I'm also happy to help you motivate yourself because you are capable of doing that. You've got this!