Learning a new language is indeed its own challenge, especially if the language is not spoken in the region where we live. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Thanks to technological advancements, we can learn any language we want, including English.

Build Confidence and Optimism

Confidence and/or optimism that "I can" and/or "I am capable" is the main foundation that must be possessed. Studies show that people who believe they cannot do something will truly be unable to do what they think they cannot. In a psychology lesson, it is commonly told about an insect placed in a glass with a clear plastic cover. After many attempts to escape, the insect keeps hitting the plastic. Even when the cover is removed, the insect continues to jump but never really escapes the glass because its efforts do not exceed its past experiences. This point emphasizes the importance of having confidence and optimism. When someone believes they cannot, their fate is like the insect in the story, unable to escape the glass. This concept is commonly referred to as a 'mental block.'

Set Your Focus

After building optimism, start thinking about a specific focus. To help you find your focus, answer the following questions:

• What skills do I need?
• What resources do I have?
• How many hours can I spend studying in a week?
• What is my measure of success?

These questions are part of a needs analysis commonly used in academic contexts. Write down these questions and their answers, and review them periodically to refresh and remind you of your main goal. If necessary, set reminders on your device to keep your focus in mind. Remember, every journey must have a clear destination.

At the very least, there are two general goals for learning English: being able to use English and understanding English. In this context, being able to use English means understanding and being able to produce sentences in English, while understanding English means being able to explain the details of sentences or discourse in English. If you aim for practical goals, the first general goal might suit you. However, if you aspire to be a professional, the second goal is a must for you.

Understand How English Works

Next, you need to understand how English works or is used according to the goals you’ve set earlier. Initially, this will force you to think, and sometimes you may feel confused and stuck. It’s important to remember that when you experience difficulties in learning, it means you’re stepping out of your comfort zone. Trust that sooner or later, you’ll get used to it and will intuitively be able to handle it on your own.