It has helped me in more ways than one. The biggest one being that I genuinely feel like constantly learning new words and improving my language skills keeps my mind sharp. I work as an RA in data entry and I have to be very detail oriented. I manage literally dozens of studies and use tons of different data entry platforms. I honestly think learning a language that is the complete opposite of English syntax-wise has increased my mind’s flexibility.
I’m about N2 level. I have passed 2 out of 3 practice exams and intend to take the official one for a third time in December. Yeah, my progress has not been great. For the length of time most people have spent studying this language they would be above N1 level given how many years I have been. But not all those years were perfect and when I returned from Japan in 2018 my studies took a nosedive.
But I’m glad I kept it up. I love being able to read and understand another language. I worked in Japan for 3.5 years and it was invaluable experience. While I sometimes regret coming back to the states, I also have grown so much professionally here and honestly, I can thank my experience abroad for that. It opened my mind and gave me many valuable skills.
I didn’t realize when I started this language learning journey just how much it would affect my life. But it has only affected it in a positive way and I’m glad I chose to do it!
7 comments
It takes most people a very long time to reach N2 and N1. Don’t let the hardcore guys on here get you down. And good luck on your test! Imma take the N2 here soon as well.
I gotta say that Japanese has also had a really positive impact on my life. I plan on living here long term (in Japan). But who knows where life takes us.
I’ve been studying Japanese since 2017 and working in Japan for the last 2 years. I’m also preparing to take N2 for the second time this December.
I think that’s probably a realistic timeline for people with full-time jobs or obligations outside of studying the language. Ultimately it’s not about how long you’ve been studying, but whether or not you stuck with it and achieved your goals in language learning. The progress you’ve made becomes a part of your identity, and that lasts a lifetime, so who cares if you take your time with it?
I think there’s quite a bit of research to support the idea that learning a foreign language helps with memory and elasticity in thinking, it’s awesome that you’ve noticed a difference! Good luck with the test, it sounds like you’ve got a good shot at it!
Good luck on your exam! And hey it’s never too late when you’re making progress – I’m glad to hear you sticking with it and enjoying it.
Learning Japanese is one of the funnest most rewarding journeys I’ve taken.
Honestly imo the best time to move abroad is late 20s early 30s. By then you’ve had a chance to adjust to adulting and get a good feel for your place in the world and surroundings. Going to japan right out of university early 20s is a real struggle because you’re trying to figure out the first part on top of being in a whole new culture and society.
Learning Japanese and playing shmups are clearing the plaque from my brain folds.
Just watch out for the bears when you go back.
Old timer here. JLPT Level 1 from the *ahem* 90’s.
Does having that level 1 designation help with visas or something?