3 Easy Ways to Learn a New Language in Under 5 Mins a Day

Today, in the fourth part of our Things to Do After Retirement: Feature of the Week, we’ll be introducing you to yet another fun and interesting thing you can do to keep yourself occupied after semi/full retirement!

Are you at a loss of what to do because of Covid-19? Have you tried doing everything from attending zoom events to home workouts? If you've always wanted to learn a second or even third language, but have never been able to find the time to do so, then why not consider using your spare time now to learn a new language?

Credits: Studyandgoabroad.com

Whilst we await for the Covid situation to ease down, it is a great time to learn a new language, and doing so will bring a wealth of benefits too! Knowing another language has many benefits, such as making your travels much less stressful when borders are fully open and Covid situation settles down.

Furthermore, bilingualism boasts significant health benefits for people of all ages – especially older adults looking to boost brain health and stave off cognitive decline. In fact, learning a second language has been shown to decrease the risk of developing dementia, and can even make you smarter and improve your decision making skills!

Here are some apps or websites that you can try out to get started today! All 3 of them are available on the web, Android, and iOS!

1. Duolingo

Credits: Tech & Learning

With Duolingo, you can choose the language you want to learn before going through daily lessons identifying key phrases and words. The app even allows you to set reminders for each day and also has several time options, starting at 5 minutes per day. Duolingo checks the user's progress, creating a customized program that addresses the user’s own problem areas.

2. Mondly

Credits: Mondly

Because Mondly lets you learn any language from your first language (rather than requiring everyone to learn from English), this app is perfect for you if you aren't a native English speaker. It also has a kids' version, which means that you can get your whole family to join in on the fun and get their lingo on!

3. Memrise

Credits: UI Sources

With home videos of native speakers, Memrise gives users a sense of how the new language actually sounds. It also utilizes proven memory techniques to cement lessons into your brain faster, as well as an algorithm that adapts to your learning pace and style. It also keeps track of the words you've mastered, if you’re one of those who like to keep a record of success.

And if you’re still hesitating, worry not! It’s never too late or too old to learn a new language! Here are some helpful tips so that you can learn more effectively:

1. Find your learning style

Credits: Turning Point Centre

We’ve recommended some apps you can try out above, but they might not be the best way for you to learn! Try to find the learning style that works for you. If you are a visual learner, you can watch TV series or films. If you are more of an auditory learner, you can check out all the amazing podcasts and audiobooks that are available online. Do you prefer to read? You could download an electronic version of a book in the language you are learning.

2. Enjoy the process of learning

A great way to learn a language effectively is to make the process as enjoyable as possible. Choose topics that interest you, like science, literature, music or celebrity gossip. Whatever it is, if you are interested in it, you will find greater motivation to keep coming back and practicing.

3. Make it a habit

Credits: Quotefancy

One of the best strategies to learn a language effectively is to make learning the language a habit, such as including language-learning activities into your daily schedule. The more often you practice, the better you’ll get and feel motivated and compelled to keep it up. There are a lot of ways to develop and maintain habits, so there is no excuse! With the apps mentioned above, you can also choose to receive reminders to review phrases and vocabulary regularly. You can also set reminders on your calendar or create a bedtime ritual to read a few pages in the language you are learning before going to sleep. Soon, you’ll be well on your way to becoming fluent in the language if you practice it regularly!

That’s all for this blog! ​​So what are you waiting for? Try learning a new language right now!

If you enjoyed this post, stay tuned for future related posts on our blog!