Travel the world, experience cultures and learn the language, a common dream for most people. But have you asked why learning a second language is beneficial? There are travel, cognitive, health and business reasons to learn a second language.
Why learning a second language is beneficial?
A lot of English speakers believe that with technology and a growing number of English speakers in vacation spots learning another language. While it’s true that speaking slower in common tourist spots will convey what you want in most cases. However, you drastically limit where you can travel and who you interact with. If you want to get to know the locals, read signs and menus learning the language is incredibly important. In addition to this people are usually more willing to interact with you in their native language vs speaking a language their not familiar with. By learning their language you also show that your willing to learn their culture and show respect towards that culture. Language is a direct route to their culture, and has a lot of health benefits.
Cognitive
Some reasons to learn a second language are
- improved memory
- problem-solving
- critical-thinking skills
- enhanced concentration
- ability to multitask
- better listening skills
In addition to these there are other cognitive benefits such as delaying mental aging and cognitive decline. Studies show that using a foreign language uses different parts of the brain. Switching from task to task and spatial awareness is easier for polyglots.
Mental Health
Other reasons for becoming bilingual are higher confidence and stronger decision making. Bilingual and polyglots report a higher confidence level overall because learning a language involves making mistakes and moving outside their comfort zone. In addition to having increased confidence levels studies show that decisions made in a second language are more rational than decisions made in their native language. Learning a second language; decreases personal bias and prejudice towards different groups.
In conclusion, becoming bilingual decreases prejudice, improves mental stability, and has a lot cognitive benefits. Those are reasons why learning a second language is beneficial. For those that overthink, click here.