Have you ever listened to two people speaking another language and wished you knew what they were talking about? Or watched a movie and wondered if the subtitles were really an accurate representation of what the actors were saying? (Often, they're not!) If so, learning a new language may be something to put at the top of your to-do list.

What language learning entails
Formal language learning begins with taking a course in the new language. Beginner courses introduce you to common phrases such as hello, goodbye, how are you, I'm fine, etc. You'll begin to build your vocabulary with numbers, colors, everyday objects, and basic verbs like "to be" and "to have." The goal of an introductory language course is to familiarize you with the foreign language and give you practice having basic conversations. More advanced language learning entails irregular verb conjugations, complex sentences, reading novels and writing essays in the language, and of course, plenty of practice speaking.

The language learning commitment
The amount of time you'll need to commit to language learning depends on the extent to which you plan to use the new language. If you're just looking for basic conversational skills, one or two beginner courses should do the trick. Of course, you'll need to be actively engaged in your learning in order for the foreign language to stick. The more time you spend listening, reading, and speaking the language outside of class, the quicker you will learn it. If you want to become fluent, you'll need to spend a few months immersed in the language, living in a place where the language is spoken constantly. After all, you won't know if you're fluent if you don't have opportunities to speak and interact in the language on a daily basis.

Benefits of learning a foreign language
Learning a language opens your world to new people and perspectives. In an increasingly global economy, learning more than one language puts you ahead of competitors in business and strengthens your relationships with people throughout the world. And when you travel, speaking the language of the land allows you to experience the true culture of its people instead of being relegated to the role of tourist. Learning a foreign language is also a great way to get a handle on the grammar of the English language, arguably one of the most difficult and unwieldy languages to learn.

Learning a new language takes time and discipline, but it's well worth the effort. And before you know it, you'll be able to watch your favorite DVD without the subtitles.

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