What’re your reasons for learning your target language(s)?
Most of us here are probably already knee deep in studies and immersion and discovering things. But what made you make that first step in your journey? Also, when it gets tough, is there any major motivator for you to help you continue? Did you ever get a major language high that made you feel in tune with your goals?
Personal anecdote was I didn’t start really committing to language learning at all until my niece was feeling suicidal. She was very much into everything Japanese. Language, anime, culture, etc. I started my Japanese because I wanted to make sure she wouldn’t feel as ostracised (she had other issues at the time I won’t get into). There’s not really a huge pull for me for Japanese other than that. She’s in a much better position now, but I’ve been on the grind long enough I don’t want to stop. Japanese is fun and interesting in it’s own right and the insights you get into other cultures via language also gives you more insight to other cultures than the target language as well as your own. (My minor kanji recognition for instance sometimes helps me guess what a small Chinese text might indicate, for instance).
Second to that, my Spanish is because my girlfriend comes from a Spanish speaking country, and I think it’s important trying to be able to integrate somewhat with your SO’s respective tongue/culture.
Irish for me is the same but self targeted. I’ve lived all my life in Ireland, but never really took up the language. I do aim to change that, but the other languages, Japanese and Spanish are more paramount for me knowing sooner.
So what about you? What made you jump into all this? Language learning seems like such a monumental goal. I figure to fully commit to it you have to be quite dedicated to it, so I’m sure you all have very good reasons for jumping in. I’d love to hear from everyone.