Rediscovering Myself Through Language Learning at 40+
Why learning languages feels so much easier today
Languages have been my passion since I can remember.
I spoke Russian at home, and then I had to learn Ukrainian, which was the school’s instruction language. English and French were part of the curriculum, and I loved how different these languages were compared to my Slavic native ones.
But I was always hungry for more. Languages, cultures, and all the different countries fascinated me (and continue to tempt me to learn more).
Later in my life, I strategically planned the languages I studied. I mastered English, German, and Italian because they are widely spoken in European business environments. Simply said, I wanted to have every chance to be an effective communicator in my job environment, wherever that might be.
While I’ve always loved learning languages, it felt like I leveled up when I turned 40.
How I Learned Before the Big 4–0
Back in my pre-40 days, learning a language was always a structured, almost mechanical process.
I was encouraged to rely heavily on textbooks, formal classes, and strict schedules. I tended to focus on mastering grammar rules and expanding my vocabulary lists — like most language students do.
The academic pressure meant I often viewed language learning as another task to be ticked off my to-do list. The aim was clear: pass exams, get certifications, and enhance my résumé.
While this was somewhat successful and I enjoyed my language achievements, this approach had its limitations. I realized that despite knowing basic rules, my fluency was lacking. I could write essays but struggled with real-life conversations.
Enjoyment was really part of language learning in the classroom, but I loved meeting foreigners and hearing their unique languages and how they expressed themselves.
Rote learning and memorization had limited my true understanding and language appreciation. So when I finished the language courses, I thought my language learning days were done — since I already spoke 5+ languages.
Turning 40 and My Language Adventures
Turning 40 was a “turning point,” not just in age but in perspective.
I realized I wanted to reconnect to my passion for languages, but this time, I wanted it to be different. I wanted that excitement of meeting foreigners and hearing their languages to replace classroom learning, to immerse myself in the languages and cultures that interested me.
It wasn’t about career advancement anymore; it was about my personal growth and fulfillment.
One of the main reasons that prompted the change was launching my language learning blog on Freiepresse.de. Writing about language learning daily rekindled my love for it and made it an integral part of my new business venture.
Learning more languages felt like a new adventure and one that I wanted to share with others.
I was no longer learning for exams or professional gains but for the sheer joy of it.
I could now focus on learning languages in creative ways.
This mindset change opened up a whole new world.
I began experimenting with different languages, each offering a unique cultural lens and new challenges.
Learning became a hobby, a daily practice, and a way to keep my brain active and my curiosity alive. Thanks to technology, I could also learn in more ways as I discovered translated TV shows, subtitles, podcasts, YouTube video channels, and so much more.
Branching into Language as a Career
With my newfound enthusiasm, I decided to take a leap of “lettered” faith and turn my passion into a career.
Transitioning from a hobbyist to a professional language coach was thrilling and daunting.
The language career shift was not without its challenges.
I had to constantly update my skills and learn new teaching methodologies. But the satisfaction of helping others unlock new worlds through language learning has been immeasurable.
Seeing my students make breakthroughs and achieve fluency is a rewarding experience that validates my decision to pursue this path.
New Language Challenges
Learning languages post-40 presented its own set of challenges. Unlike my younger years, when I could (relatively) easily memorize and retain information, I found that my memory wasn’t as sharp as it used to be.
I had to find new strategies to cope. I also started self-doubting more; learning a new language as an adult can sometimes feel like starting from scratch.
But with age came wisdom (mostly 😊).
I learned to be more patient with myself and to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process rather than see them as setbacks.
Moreover, learning languages now involves balancing learning with other life responsibilities — work, family, and personal commitments.
How I Learn Languages Now
My approach to language learning is very different from before.
Gone are the days of rigid schedules and monotonous grammar drills.
I now embrace a more holistic and flexible approach. I use a combination of immersive techniques — watching movies, reading books, and listening to podcasts in the target language.
This way, learning feels less like a chore and more like an enjoyable part of my day.
I also make a point to engage in regular conversations with native speakers. A morning at the market is a treasure trove of experiences as I hear locals and tourists interact in various languages.
I’ve become a world citizen, and it’s been a game-changer. Learning languages has improved my fluency and also gives me a deeper cultural understanding.
Benefits of the Polyglot Method
The “polyglot method,” as I call it, means I learn multiple languages concurrently, which might seem daunting to some.
But it’s not the “Tower of Babel” (in fact, I love to use the app — Babbel 😊).
My new language-learning approach has proven to be very effective.
Learning different languages simultaneously allows me to draw parallels and contrasts between words, sounds, and pronunciations, enhancing my overall understanding of language structure and function.
Diversity also keeps the learning process exciting and dynamic. Each language offers a fresh perspective, a new way of thinking, and a unique cultural insight.
The variety keeps me engaged and motivated, and learning new languages is an adventure.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that learning languages is part of who I am — not just what I do.
Knowing all these languages has allowed me to rediscover myself, see the world through different cultural lenses, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
At 40+, I’ve discovered that it’s never too late to start anew.
Research shows that while our hearing and vision may not be what they once were, our ability to learn remains strong. In fact, as we get older, we often approach learning with more focus and motivation.
The great thing about being older is that we’re usually better at setting clear goals and finding ways to reach them.
Thank you for reading!
