Yes, You Can Be an Introvert and Learn a Language

Too often language learning centers on the extroverts among us, but let’s not forget you can be an introvert and learn a language too.

In fact, my mother will be the first person to tell you how proud she is of me.

I’ve moved to another country, visited a swath of others, I’ve traveled by myself, and tackled (though not perfected) the Spanish language. Those are all difficult things to do, yes. But even more so once you consider my deep-seated shyness, introversion, and just plain love of being anti-social.

I’m that person whose face gets red on a dime -even when I don’t feel embarrassed. I was the kid whose pre-k teachers assumed I didn’t speak English because I was so quiet. And the kid they had “considerations” about entering kindergarten because I wasn’t social enough. Though, if it’s now decades later and I’m just as shy, I don’t know what they thought an extra year in pre-k would do.

Of the issues that have impacted my Spanish language learning, one of them has certainly been my introversion. But the important takeaway (and what my mother has realized for years) is that yes, I am an introvert, and yes, that is cause for an added challenge, but it certainly hasn’t stopped me.

Nor should it stop you.

You can be an introvert and learn a language.

The things that have helped me step out of my comfort zone, tackle living in a foreign country, and learning Spanish head on are as simple and introvert-friendly as it gets:

Netflix and Chill Language Learn

The hermit in me truly appreciates the quantity of Spanish language content Netflix has been adding lately (Thanks, guys!). It’s incredibly easy to find good quality shows and movies.

Whatever I don’t understand, I turn on subtitles for -in either English or Spanish, depending on the day. Added bonus: You’ll learn a little culture and slang too!

Not interested in anything in Spanish? Watch whatever English-language content you want and turn on Spanish subtitles. Its helped me understand certain phrases or words that I needed a direct translation for. Not all translations are going to be of quality, but it’s better than nothing.

Eavesdrop Like a Pro

Use every single moment you are out in public to listen in on people’s conversations. I know it’s rude, but it’s such a good way to listen to how people actually talk than whatever a textbook has told you. At the grocery store, on the bus, walking down the street -there are constant opportunities to hear language in action. So, take out your headphones and listen.

Read

I’m an avid reader. As in, I devour books at an ungodly pace. It’s a way to wind down from my day and enjoy some “me” time. Instead of always going for your tried and true genres, try out books in Spanish.

Depending on your Spanish level, this might be tricky. Though I’m not ashamed to say that children’s books are a great starting point.

I also suggest reading the Spanish versions of some of your favorite English books. You practically know them by heart anyway, which makes it an easier transition.

Study Solo

Whether you choose an app or a textbook -studying solo is another go it alone choice. No distractions from others, you can study in the comfort of your own room, and it’s at your own pace and level.

Some downsides include not being able to ask a teacher any gnawing questions you might have or the possibility of learning something incorrectly -without having a teacher there to correct you.

Find an Intercambio You Can Be Comfortable With

I truly hesitate to put this up here, because it can be an introvert’s worst nightmare. However, if you can find a like-minded introvert intercambio partner or an intercambio held in a calmer environment, then it might be a step in the right direction.

Get a Hobby

Another tough one for some of us introverts. But, if you join a club, take a class or learn a new skill, you’re listening to your target language and practicing it. The best part? The focus isn’t learning a language, and it’s not on you, it’s on the activity.

Retreat When You Need To

Need some you time? Don’t feel obligated to over socialize. Do something on your own or just stay home for a day and recharge (Hello, Netflix!). Everyone’s got a breaking point. Make sure you know yourself enough to realize where yours is.

Look, a HUGE part of language acquisition is going out in the world and interacting with people. There’s no way around that. But, you are certainly allowed to take some baby steps and gain confidence before all that socializing business. Show the world that introverts can learn a language just like anyone else.

Hopefully your Mom will be just as proud as mine -since I’m sure she’s already proud of you for, you know, all the other challenges you’ve taken on in life.