Different paths but one common goal — For the untrained eye, polyglots all look alike. They speak “many” languages and that’s it. The reality is quite different. There are 3 kinds of polyglots who follow different patterns but follow the same goal: gather knowledge in multiple languages. 1. The Language Family-focused polyglot The first one, and most often found around the world…

And closer to the advanced learner you deserve to be — The intermediate plateau is a language learner’s worst nightmare. It doesn’t feel like a plateau. It feels like you’re hanging on a raft in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight. Nothing will come to save you. I’ve lived that nightmare more times than I can count…

And that don’t have to be done at a desk — Studying a language is not even half the battle. School failed us all when it comes to language learning. Most people get out of school unable to speak any foreign language despite having spent over 5 years studying at least one. I got lucky and got out speaking one: English…

And how they handle the rare times they actually do them. — In the 15 years I’ve been learning languages, I’ve seen all kinds of language learners. Many have succeeded. Many more have failed. If I’ve learned one thing, it’s that no two learners follow the exact path. …

If you want to progress AND have more fun — Most language-learning apps are an absolute waste of time. Some have spent so much on marketing and gamification that they’ve convinced the population learning through them works. Some focus on vocabulary alone and provide no context at all, expecting people to remember new words without even seeing how to use…

Or why I’m closing my column to focus on the right topics. — I remember the first piece I ever published for the Writing Cooperative. I had submitted draft after draft for months on end, all getting rejected. Getting published felt like I had reached a new level. I could officially say, “Look at me, I’m a freaking writer.” It felt good. It…

And should try to get your style to skyrocket — Creativity is an eluding concept. Most people grow up thinking it’s a gift some have and some don’t. I did too. Those who choose to write despite this belief soon realize this is a myth but struggle to increase their creativity. They read about it. They follow simple practices like…

Without going crazy! — I’ve spent the past 6 months juggling up to 6 languages at the same time. I’ve studied Korean, Ainu, Toki Pona, German, Thai, and Chinese. Like every juggler, I’ve dropped the ball countless times and picked it up again. I’ve felt frustrated at times. I’ve felt empowered at others. To…

Lessons from falling for lies most writers believe — I left a good job in the country of my dreams, Japan, almost two years ago. I gave everything up to become a “writer.” Today, I’m far from being the definition of a “success.” I don’t make a living wage with my words. My audience has both skyrocketed and plummeted…