The benefits of being bilingual

Bilingual education has become increasingly important as a result of our access to travel and communication with people across the globe. Several schools require a study of another language and universities have expanded their study abroad programs.

The focus on educating the youth should not deter older adults. Most adults would like to learn new languages but we are often dissuaded by the idea that it would be harder .

In reality, adults have more self-discipline and resources. Babbel compares learning a new language to learning a new instrument – practice, consistency, and effort are key. They also recommend practicing for about 30 minutes per day.

Being bilingual: The benefits of learning a new language far outweigh the hesitation. Some benefits include:

1. Job Market: Being bilingual can improve your competitiveness in the job market. Companies that are expanding globally are in need of people with the right skills and can communicate seamlessly.
2. Mental Availability: Skills in problem-solving, multitasking and decision-making are improved. The brain is being trained while learning a new language. You are often memorizing and repeating new things. 
3. Cultural and Social: Understanding more people, movies, literature, and music are just a few perks of knowing another language. Tolerance of ambiguity is also increased . You are more likely to understand people out of context. 
4. Makes Adapting Easier: When traveling or settling in as an expat, knowing the local language can help you adjust. This also increases your understanding of a new country as your interaction with locals will give you a deeper cultural experience.  
5. No Disadvantages: There are no known disadvantages of being bilingual, only advantages! To learn and understand a new culture in its entirety is a great way to make new friends around the world.

Join a language group, make new friends, and learn that new language! Opportunities will follow in both your professional and personal life.

Read more on speaking different languages on our post about Latin Languages here. And if you want to start learning a new language or improving one you already know, check out the language groups at SPEAK.social.

Author: Anne

Anne was born in China and raised in the US. She is studying marketing. She enjoys meeting new people and learning more about their cultures.