You Can Learn Any Language, Even If It’s One Of The World’s Hardest [INFOGRAPHIC]

David Joannes

I took one semester of Spanish. It just didn’t click with me. Even though it’s pretty low on the language difficulty level, I simply did not have/create the proper environment to learn the language.

Environment makes a huge difference, as does passion for learning a particular language and culture.

Then I moved to China in 1998 and spent four years studying Mandarin Chinese. I did not know a single person in Kunming city, and I only had a small background on the daunting language. With one semester of Mandarin behind me, I could say 你好 hello, 再见 goodbye, and 卫生间在哪里?where is the bathroom? The important stuff!

I immersed myself in the culture and language, forcing myself to learn. Within months I began picking up the tones and nuances needed to communicate. It came to me fairly easily, of course, that with a lot of hard work and hours spent practicing. That however does not negate the fact that, yes, Mandarin Chinese is way up there on the “hardest languages to learn” bracket.

I speak English, Mandarin, Tagalog, and am now learning Thai—another tonal language, this one with 5 tones. Easy, right?!

My point: if you’re a missionary (or anyone for that matter. I simply speak to those within my own niche field), you can learn any language if you put your mind to it.

hardest languages to learn

Here’s a few tips for language learning from TEDx speakers:

And here’s a few more free tips:

  • Commit yourself to the language and culture.
  • Create an environment for learning.
  • Speak, speak, speak, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Step forward with intention and you will be well on your way to success—even if you need to flail your arms and use a little body language to get your point across. Because the reality of most cross cultural situations require a bit of body language.

Of this you can be sure: signs and wonders will follow. You’ll sign and they’ll wonder!

Whether you need to learn a language that is easy or hard, you can do it.

And missionary, please remember, it will enhance your future ministry in tremendous ways, so don’t give up!

Leave a comment below if you have any questions or thoughts about language learning.