Voices en Español

Once you get past the beginner’s stage and know the basic grammar and have a decent vocabulary, it can seem hard getting to the next level, particularly if you’re not fully immersed in a Spanish-speaking environment. But you can continue to improve and advance your Spanish if you’re willing to be a little creative and consistent in your efforts. Here are some ideas that may give you the little push you need right now:

Set a new goal
What is it that YOU would like to see improve about your Spanish? Is it your speaking? Vocabulary? Your ability to use a particular grammar tense? Is it listening comprehension? Pick one area that you would like to improve and then focus on how you can make that a reality. For example, if it is vocab, don’t just memorize new words in Spanish and match them to their English equivalents. (“Zanahoria means carrot.”) Encourage yourself to define those words IN Spanish. For example, “Zanahoria…la verdura que es el alimento favorito de Bugs Bunny.”  Not only will this make your brain work harder, you’re more likely to remember the word because of the additional context and you’ll enjoy the added benefit of sneaking in more practice since you’ll be using more of your vocabulary in Spanish. This bit of advice leads into the next one…

Talk to yourself in Spanish throughout the day

May seem wacky but you already have an internal dialogue with yourself in English (or German or Dutch or Korean, lo que sea), just switch it to Spanish a few minutes each day. And while you’re at it, speak to your cat, dog or whatever pet you may have in Spanish. Talk about a captive audience!

Do language intercambios via Skype or face-to-face

Yes, I know that you probably already know about the incredible amount of online resources out there for this. But are you using any of them? Some possibilities include The Mixxer and SharedTalk but there are many others out there. Just search in Google under “language intercambios.” It’s quick and easy to sign up and it’s free. If you contact multiple people you will eventually find one or two that you click with and can strike up a long-term conversational arrangement. Often when you make a commitment to help someone else, you also wind up helping yourself, so just do it!

Look for a local Spanish conversation group via MeetUp.com or start your own

This could potentially be a big time commitment, at least initially getting it started. But it’s an option well-worth considering, especially if you are burned out on taking conventional Spanish classes but enjoy the group dynamic that classes can provide.

Plan an extended language-learning vacation in a Spanish-speaking country

There’s nothing like thinking and planning for the future to get people motivated. Where in the world would be your ideal place to study Spanish? What would be your second most ideal place? Hit Google and start researching your destinations. (Sidenote: I’ve got something in the works that may help you with this. Stay tuned.) If you can combine doing volunteer work with language learning on your trip, that could be an especially rewarding combination.

How do you guys keep yourself motivated? Tell us below in the comments section. Thanks!

Photo: Smiling Pug