In this post I discuss how our emotional state and attitude can hinder the language learning process.

 

 

So, I have studied quite a few languages over the years. For a while, I could speak some then they sank into oblivion because I did not use them.

 

There is one language that I have never learnt to any degree, apart from being able to read the written text without understanding it, which is Russian.

 

I studied Russian for over 11 years. I had at least one 45 min lesson per week semester after semester without any results.

 

Well, it is true to say that language teaching at that time in Hungary was in its infancy. Languages were taught with something called the Prussians method or grammar translation method that is only fit to teach ‘dead’ languages. The focus is on academic understanding of the language rather that speaking it.

 

“17th, 18th, 19th C – The ability to read and translate classical texts gave rise to the ‘grammar-translation’ method (first known as ‘Prussian Method’ because of German roots – e.g., Ploetz and Seidenstuecker); reading & writing paramount;” Source and read more click here

 

Looking back, the mode of teaching was not the main issue. I think it was that my grandma did not like the Russians, she disagreed with the fact that Russia ‘silently’ occupied the country and that we were forced to learn Russian so we can communicate with the invaders. My grandma often told me that the Russian soldiers had done much more harm to civilians than what the Germans had ever done . The horrors of the Holocaust distorted our vision and we failed to see the cruelty and the genocide of different strata of society in the so called ‘Soviet block’.

 

So, the main reason why I never learnt Russian was my loyalty to my grandma whom I loved dearly.  I have never experienced anything but kindness and friendship from Russian people I have met. I am very sorry that I did not learn the language when I had the chance to do so.

 

My emotions got in the way.

 

I think it is important to notice how we feel about the language that we are attempting to learn. Disliking the language we are studying makes it really heart to learn it.

 

I still strongly believe that anyone can learn any languages they wish to. However, if we emotionally reject the language with some reason or another, it will probably make it very harder for us to learn it.

 

In my observation, there are two ways to go around this problem. We can look at the issue in the face and become aware of the problem. When we know what we are dealing with, we can create strategies to overcome it. Alternatively, we can ignore the emotional issue which may prevent us from ever attaining our goal: speaking in that language.

 

If you want to ‘ lean’  English with me, get in touch by clicking on the pictures below.