We've all been there: sitting in Spanish or French or Latin class, watching the clock, wondering why we're required to learn a language in high school when we're probably not going to need it later in life. But, chances are, you probably will need to know a language at some point in your life.
According to infoplease.com, Chinese and Spanish are the most spoken languages, with English coming in third place. What does this mean? It means that, chances are, you're going to come across a Chinese or Spanish speaker in your line of work. And this doesn't just apply to those working in large businesses. My father, for example, sometimes has to speak Spanish as he works as a paramedic.
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Writers can also use a second language to their benefit. Obviously, a second language works to their benefit if they want to have a character who is bilingual. It also helps if they want to create a new language. All languages are different from each other; every language has their own vocabulary and grammar rules. Having even the basic understanding of this can help if you want to create your own language. It helps you understand how grammar works, and can even help you develop your own vocabulary.
According to Be Brain Fit, learning a second language can help improve intelligence, memory, and concentration. Because learning a second language is so hard, it gives your brain a good "workout." Compared to those who speak only one language, people who speak two or more generally have higher intelligence, score better on math, reading, and vocabulary tests, and are better at prioritizing and planning making, among other things. Children who grow up in a bilingual household experience "brain benefits" early on. Learning a second language can also help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's.
The most obvious reason to learn a second language is for travel. I have been to Spain and France. While my basic understanding of Spanish somewhat helped me while I was in Spain, I had to rely on others while in France. Obviously, if you want to travel, you don't have to learn every single word and grammar rule in the language. But, a basic understanding does go a long way.
One of my biggest regrets is not doing better in Spanish. I treated my high school Spanish class like just another subject in school. I didn't really take it as seriously as I should've. I felt it was "too hard" and decided to focus on subjects that I felt would benefit me more. I was so wrong! Now that I'm learning Swedish (due to my desire to move there one day), I realize my problem was that I didn't practice the language every day. Thus, when I went to Spanish class, I was overwhelmed and ultimately decided to drop it senior year of high school.
Learning a language is so beneficial to you. Honestly, it helps you have a greater respect for others and can help you in your job and life. So don't be like high school me: practice, practice, practice!
