Ah, New Years. Resolutions are made. You feel refreshed and ready to change the world. Sadly, these good feelings never last. Well, here’s an idea to actually manage to stick to your Chinese learning resolutions: make smaller ones. Manageable ones. And no, we’re not talking about making “go grocery shopping” a resolution. You’ll see..
In January, your good will to actively pursue the things you like abounds and your motivation is chock-high. That’s awesome! You’re working towards improving your life! Well, enjoy the moment and surf this positive improvement attitude. Milk it all you can, because, let’s face it, it won’t last…
But let’s not talk about this quite yet. So, if you’re feeling ready to study the hell out of Chinese? Here are 5 language learning tips, for you to get even more pysched.
Done reading? Great, you’re now all set to go learn yourself some Chinese! Why not start by reviewing what you learned in 2013?
Chinese learning resolutions: Dealing with expectations; the key to better kept resolutions
What? Out of steam already? Resolution you made seem too… huge? We know, we’re no better.
Ahem.
Maybe it has to do with managing our expectations better; and being more realistic about the amount of effort we’re going to put in.
Yeah, that seems like a good start.
Chinese learning resolutions : One resolution a month…
The Khan academy team advocates monthly resolutions. I really like the sound of that.
Turns out doing something for 30 days is a way to trick your brain, as studies have shown that it takes about 30 days to form a habit.
Not that bad, heh? Yes, being persistent for a month all seems entirely more doable. And nothing’s keeping for me from doing it another month afterwards, if I want! Especially if my brain now thinks it’s a habit. Tee heehee.
So what new learning habit are you going to create this month?Let us know!
Your monthly challenge/resolution can be anything you want; but it shouldn’t take you more than an hour a day. And it should be enjoyable. Because remember, you’re doing it for yourself!
And to show you you’re not the only one there making resolutions, here’s my monthly resolution:
To listen to an hour of Chinese a day.
I’m starting with a month of Chinese listening because a/ it’s something easy to do in the background while working and b/ two of my team members, Wei and Alisa, speak Chinese around me and that’s a great source of input right there! Also, I’d really like to improve my listening comprehension!
Happy learning!
Sarah, from the Nincha Team
Ninchanese is a new platform where you’ll have fun learning Chinese. We’re still working on it for now, so sign up to try the beta for free when we launch! And stay in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google + and Weibo.
opening photo source: Zedza