Sonia asks: "What's the ideal language learning environment?"

Episode Summary:

• There's no such thing as the ideal, or best, language learning environment
• Learning to speak a language is heavily linked to affective factors - your feelings and how you react to the environment around you
• You can be very analytical, and conclude that complete immersion after a minimum of study is the "most efficient way"... but only if you're happy in that environment
• When I look back on my language learning story, my success has been heavily linked to my environment (e.g. Spanish friends in London vs isolation in Japan)
• The question I ask myself most when I learn languages now is: "How does this language make sense in the context of the lifestyle that I enjoy?" (e.g. In Hong Kong I didn't have great working conditions, so my language learning suffered as a result)
• If your French is still low-level, you still have a lot of work to do. You can do this naturally through speaking with people, or you can do it through formal study (or some combination of the two)
• Isolating yourself in rural France is a big gamble, where you and your personality will determine whether you succeed or not
• The question is not: "Is this the best way?" The question should be: "Is this the best way for me?"
• I don't know what your commitment to staying in France is, but don't be afraid to follow the path that makes you happier - life is about more than language learning
• In your specific situation, I would accept the reality that interacting socially is hard, and seek out a language partner or tutor (e.g. iTalki) who can help you get dedicated practice and build up your confidence
• It might seem perverse to pay someone to help you while you're in France, but it might be a smart move.

Today's Quote: I have been and still am a seeker, but I have ceased to question stars and books; I have begun to listen to the teaching my blood whispers to me. - Hermann Hesse Start speaking today:

I’d like to thank iTalki for supporting the show. To claim your free lesson and start speaking today, visit: http://iwillteachyoualanguage.com/italkishownotes 

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