If you’re looking to pick up a new hobby that is productive as it is fun and rewarding, you should consider learning a new language. Whether or not you're new to learning another language or you’re pursuing this endeavor for a second, third, or fourth time, there is no doubt that there are advantages to becoming multi-lingual. Not only can you deepen your connection to other cultures around the world, but you also might be able to advance your career and reap various benefits from this. Not certain which language to explore next? Check out our three suggestions below, and we’ll help to lead the way.
Mandarin Chinese
Mandarin Chinese is the language with the most native speakers, and it’s probably no coincidence because of Asia’s vast and diverse population. Mandarin Chinese is also the largest of the Chinese “macro languages,” a grouping of thirteen languages all considered being Chinese based on their shared writing system and literature. Although complex, if you choose this language, you’ll be amongst a vast range of speakers around the globe!
Spanish
Second only to Mandarin Chinese, Spanish has 400 million native speakers around the world. Spanish is also the official language of more than twenty countries and is commonly spoken as a first, second, or third language in many more. Today, approximately thirteen percent of the U.S. population speaks Spanish as a first language, and one study predicts that by 2050, the U.S. could have more Spanish-speaking residents than any other country. Talk about a useful language to sink your teeth into!
German
The most widely spoken native language on the European continent, the language of German opens doors to academic, economic, and political powerhouses. Despite many warnings you’ve may have heard in the past, German is actually a fairly simple language for English speakers to learn. English, another complex language, is derived from German, and both share the same rigid (and sometimes, unexpected) structure, rules, and exceptions. So, why not do yourself a favor and pick up some German?
Skyline at Kessler Apartments in Dallas, Texas