Learning has always been a social phenomenon, with it being the core of human existence and social systems. It’s more so for topics that require immediate implementation and social interaction. Such topics can pose difficulties for introverts, whose social battery may not allow them to make full use of the social settings as opposed to their extroverts counterparts.
By no means are they incompatible with learning that requires interaction, but if given a choice, introverts would rather avoid draining their social battery by studying on their own. Thus, there is a point of contention as language learning, in particular, requires one to practise speaking with others to achieve mastery. If you’re a fellow introvert, don’t shy from learning because here a few tips to help you out!
Take Some One-On-One Time
The most straightforward approach to learning anything is to be enrolled in a class that offers a structured curriculum taught by experienced teachers. Since this offers you both a formal and private setting, you will not need to make any unnecessary and meaningless chatter. You’d dive straight into the learning and you wouldn’t have to subscribe yourself to conversations you’re not ready to have. If you wish to pick up a new language or any other skill for that matter, one-on-one time is the best way to go.
Finding Your Type Of People
One of the downside to having a one-on-one class is the fact that you may get rather lonely. With nobody to share the learning journey with you, it may feel rather lonesome learning something in solitude for a few months.
One solution is to simply seek the company of other introverts! Since both parties understand the tiresome interaction and social pitter-patter can be, you’ll be on the same page as far as social interaction goes! Since connecting to other people doesn’t come as naturally and easily, introverts tend to take their time picking and choosing their company carefully. They have an inkling of the boundaries they should not cross when interacting with another.
Since conversation is a vital component in language mastery, being comfortable with another to engage in long discourse is essential! Of course, finding an introvert, much less an introvert of the same wavelength, can be rather challenging. Success won’t happen with everyone you meet, but you will find your type of people.
Limit Your Interaction
For most introverts, if not all, social interactions are a bane – only because it leaves them drained for the next few days. Some introverts even go so far as to plan and limit the time they spend with others so that they can save their social battery for something else.
Whilst it may seem rather bizarre and maybe even extreme, this approach is highly beneficial. Start by setting limits by which you’re willing to interact. This could be saying no to networking events or conversations on video conferencing platforms if you deemed it particularly draining. Leave your weekly language meetup earlier or opt for texting or emailing, as opposed to calls and physical meetups. Such an approach is not so much about dishing excuses to stay within your comfort zone, but rather being protective of your time and choices, so that you can be at your very best when you do decide to socialise.
Start Your Learning With Writing First
Socialising may be overwhelming, which is why many put it off later and took up other means to learn. For language learners, you can always take up writing as your first step! Whenever you wish to put forth an idea or the like, you can always pen it down instead of voicing them. Not only is it less intimidating, but it also gives contemplative introverts more satisfaction!
Writing is also a fantastic approach for languages that have a different writing script than the Latin alphabets. When you opt for Japanese classes, one of the first few things you’d touch on is writing its various scripts, particularly the Hiragana. Thus, not only will you be able to find a middle ground communicating your thoughts and ideas, you’d also practise the unfamiliar strokes and slowly get better in both your proficiency and handwriting!
For an introvert, learning a new language and applying what you’ve learnt can be particularly exhausting. Since language is a communicative tool, you won’t be able to run away from socialising. However, just as how you’ve fared navigating social events with the English language or native language, you can do the same with the foreign language you’re about to learn.
Learn Japanese online with experienced native Japanese teachers at Japanese Explorer! We’re dedicated to making your learning journey to your desired Japanese proficiency a smooth and effective one. With our help, you’d be able to welcome the next few months with a new language proficiency to apply in the real world!
