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.

Language Exposure

Language exposure plays a crucial role in the process of acquiring a foreign language. It refers to the amount and quality of interaction a learner has with the target language through listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The more a learner is exposed to the language, the more familiar they become with its sounds, vocabulary, structures, and usage patterns. This continuous contact helps develop both receptive skills (listening and reading) and productive skills (speaking and writing), laying a strong foundation for fluency and comprehension.

For foreign language learners, exposure enables the natural absorption of language rules and usage without relying solely on explicit grammar instruction. When learners regularly engage with authentic materials—such as songs, films, conversations, articles, or social media—they encounter real-life language in various contexts. This helps them understand cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and appropriate language use in different situations. Moreover, consistent exposure enhances vocabulary acquisition and reinforces previously learned content through repeated encounters.

Finally, language exposure also plays a significant role in increasing learner confidence and motivation. When students regularly hear and use the target language, they become less afraid of making mistakes and more willing to communicate. This builds a sense of progress and encourages active participation in language use. Whether through formal instruction or informal practice, maximizing exposure is one of the most effective ways to support long-term language development and achieve communicative competence.

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.