It’s been 3 years, I attended Japanese school twice. My current level is N3, I could survive in simple work environment like convenience store where I happen to work now. Or arrange all the documents needed here in Japan. But I can’t dive into any deep conversation with the native. My brother/ sister and dad are native Japanese as well. But I don’t live with them anymore.
I just can’t seem to learn the language. It’s been one of my hardest struggle.
I’m also really introverted, I sometimes think I just enjoyed the sense of not being part of anything. Or I don’t feel any enthusiasm with the language, maybe I enjoy the invisible walls that protects me from anything outside, like judgement.
I don’t know what to do.
This April i will continue my study for n2. But I seem not interested learning the language at all. I love japan so much, but despite of me being put in the situation of pressure, like last time I worked in a night job where I can use most of my speaking skills. Nothing works.
Nothing really works.
https://www.reddit.com/r/japan/comments/11p1pfk/ive_been_in_japan_for_3_years_yet_i_couldnt_still/
5 comments
I feel you. I’ve been here almost ten years and I’m at your level. It’s not like I don’t study either, but I have very few chances to use it in everyday life since I work as an English teacher.
Just my opinion, and this goes for any language, but – there’s no shortcut. Sit down, open a textbook, and give it the time and effort. Three years is actually not that long, you’re doing fine if you’re preparing for N2. Of course it’s important to find opportunities to use the language, but you can’t have a conversation about politics, natural disasters, health, etc. if you don’t put those words in your brain first.
Source: I’m a multilingual translator.
I know you feel frustrated that you can’t have deep conversations with native speakers yet. But don’t give up! Learning a language is a long and challenging journey, but it’s also rewarding and fun. You have already made so much progress, and you can make even more if you keep trying. Even I can’t hold a long and complex conversation without switching to English.
Maybe you need to find something that sparks your interest and motivation for learning Japanese. Maybe it’s a hobby, a book, a movie, a song, or a friend. Maybe it’s something related to your family or your dreams. Whatever it is, try to find it and use it as your fuel to keep going.
You are not alone in this struggle. There are many people who are learning Japanese with you, and many people who want to help you succeed. You can join online communities, language exchange apps, or study groups to meet them and practice your skills. You can also ask your nearest friends or family for advice or support.
You have nothing to fear from the outside world. There is no judgment here, only curiosity and respect. You are part of this society, and you have something valuable to contribute. Don’t let your introversion stop you from expressing yourself and connecting with others.
You can do this! Ganbatte!
Don’t be so hard on yourself. Language isn’t math if you make mistakes it’s ok, because it’s all about communication. If you can get your point across then you’re doing better than most.
Just keep learning at your own pace and don’t fret over your progress. I’ve been here a lot longer than three years and I’m still not satisfied with my level of Japanese. I never give up on it, though.