Advice I Would Give My Past Self About Studying Chinese

Advice I would give my past self about studying Chinese

Recently I've been reflecting on my Chinese learning journey and how far I've come. If I could go back in time, these are 10 things I would tell my past self. A few are specific to Chinese, but most can apply to any language

It will get so much easier to learn new characters. I remember feeling overwhelmed because learning new characters was a painful process. Now when I encounter a new character, I can remember it with relative ease—it’s just a new combination of familiar components.

Don't feel bad about having uneven development in different skills. My listening and reading are significantly stronger than my speaking and writing. It’s super common and nothing to be ashamed of.

The best way to get over being too embarrassed to speak is to experience some embarrassment and realize it’s not a big deal. I used to be so afraid of making mistakes that I would avoid speaking in class. It was only by being forced to speak that I got over it. I'm much better for it!

It’s impossible to learn everything, and time is limited. You have to prioritize. You probably don’t need to know how to say “pawnshop” in Chinese, and trying to jam your head full of 100 words you saw once won’t work. They won’t stick.

It will actually be harder to read pinyin than to read characters at some point. When I helped a friend with a script for her Chinese class, I really struggled because she had written it entirely in pinyin. I had to write out the characters to read without stumbling! I know characters are daunting for beginners, but trust me, you will get used to them.

If you haven’t practiced or learned something, of course you won’t be good at it. I remember feeling so frustrated trying to navigate Chinese websites for the first time. In retrospect, obviously, I was going to struggle with something completely new to me!

If something isn’t sticking, move on. Why waste time on a word that’s not clicking when you could be learning five new ones? It will only result in unnecessary frustration. So unless you need to know it for your class or a proficiency test, drop it and move on.

Don’t beat yourself up when you have trouble understanding music, literature, different accents, etc. These can be challenging even in your native language. Of course you’re going to struggle more in a new language.

It's worth it to pay attention to things like stroke order and tones from the start so you don't form bad habits. Don’t stress about get it perfect, but it’s easier to do it right the first time than to have to correct your bad habits in the future.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all that you don’t know, learn how to express yourself with what you do know. It’s truly its own skill that requires practice. After all, in life you can’t always stop and pull out a dictionary.

I started learning Chinese a really long time ago, but I became more serious about it in 2018, so 5 1/2 years ago. I'm very proud of how far I've come, but I still have a long way to go! I look forward to revisiting this post in another couple of years 😊

Best language learning tips & masterlists from other bloggers I’ve come across

(these posts are not my own!)

THE HOLY GRAIL of language learning (-> seriously tho, this is the BEST thing I’ve ever come across)

Tips:

Some language learning exercises and tips

20 Favorite Language Learning Tips

what should you be reading to maximize your language learning?

tips for learning a language (things i wish i knew before i started)

language learning and langblr tips

Tips on how to read in your target language for longer periods of time

Tips and inspiration from Fluent in 3 months by Benny Lewis

Tips for learning a sign language

Tips for relearning your second first language

How to:

how to self teach a new language

learning a language: how to

learning languages and how to make it fun

how to study languages

how to practice speaking in a foreign language

how to learn a language when you don’t know where to start

how to make a schedule for language learning

How to keep track of learning more than one language at the same time

Masterposts:

Language Study Master Post

Swedish Resources Masterpost

French Resouces Masterpost

Italian Resources Masterpost

Resource List for Learning German

Challenges:

Language-Sanctuary Langblr Challenge

language learning checkerboard challenge

Word lists:

2+ months of language learning prompts

list of words you need to know in your target language, in 3 levels

Other stuff:

bullet journal dedicated to language learning

over 400 language related youtube channels in 50+ languages

TED talks about language (learning)

Learning the Alien Languages of Star Trek

Feel free to reblog and add your own lists / masterlists!

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do you love poetry?

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Being Classy And Developing A Ladylike Mindset

Being Classy and Developing a Ladylike Mindset

1. Cultivate Inner Confidence

Know Your Worth: Understand your strengths and embrace your individuality. Confidence shines through when you’re comfortable with who you are.

Positive Self-Talk: Replace self-doubt with affirmations and focus on your achievements.

Stay Humble: Confidence paired with humility creates a balanced and approachable demeanor.

2. Refine Your Communication Skills

Speak Eloquently: Practice speaking clearly and thoughtfully. Avoid excessive slang or profanity.

Listen Actively: Pay attention when others speak, showing genuine interest.

Express Gratitude: Use “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” generously.

Avoid Gossip: Discuss ideas and experiences rather than people’s flaws.

3. Embrace Elegance in Appearance

Dress Tastefully: Choose clothing that flatters your body and suits the occasion. Stick to timeless pieces and neutral tones for a polished look.

Maintain Grooming: Keep your hair, nails, and skin clean and neat. A simple, natural makeup look often appears more refined.

Invest in Quality Accessories: A classic handbag, elegant jewelry, and well-maintained shoes elevate your style.

4. Develop a Graceful Demeanor

Practice Good Posture: Stand and sit up straight; it conveys poise and confidence.

Move Gracefully: Walk with intention and avoid rushing or slouching.

Control Your Emotions: Stay calm under pressure and express emotions in a balanced manner.

Be Mindful: Avoid interrupting, fidgeting, or speaking too loudly in social settings.

5. Educate Yourself Continuously

Pursue Knowledge: Stay informed about current events, culture, and areas of personal interest.

Read Widely: Literature, history, and self-development books broaden your perspective.

Learn New Skills: Cooking, etiquette, or a second language can enhance your personal refinement.

6. Uphold Strong Values

Integrity: Stay true to your values and act with honesty.

Kindness: Treat everyone with respect and compassion, regardless of status.

Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and learn from mistakes.

Boundaries: Maintain healthy boundaries in relationships and stand up for yourself gracefully.

7. Practice Good Etiquette

Table Manners: Familiarize yourself with basic dining etiquette.

Social Etiquette: Be polite in conversation, respect personal space, and use appropriate body language.

Digital Etiquette: Avoid oversharing online and be mindful of how you communicate on social media.

8. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Choose Your Circle Wisely: Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you.

Seek Inspiration: Follow role models who embody elegance and class.

Avoid Drama: Distance yourself from negativity and unnecessary conflicts.

9. Give Back

Be Generous: Volunteer your time, resources, or skills to help others.

Show Appreciation: Acknowledge and thank those who contribute to your life.

10. Balance Ambition with Grace

Set Goals: Work toward personal and professional aspirations with determination.

Stay Humble: Celebrate your successes without arrogance.

Help Others Succeed: Offer encouragement and mentorship to those around you.

Being classy and having a ladylike mindset is about embodying grace, confidence, and kindness. It’s not just about appearance but also about your behavior, values, and the way you interact with the world.

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