Richard Benton

Vulnerability: The Key to Language Learning

New Year, New Language Summit 2023

Intermediate: Getting Past the Plateaus

The second edition tackled why progress stalls after the beginner phase and how to push through it with motivation and the right techniques.

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About this session

Richard Benton champions learning community languages to foster mutual understanding. He argues that trying to speak, even imperfectly, is more important than fluency, sharing how embracing vulnerability can build connections.

Key takeaways

  • Prioritize learning the languages of your community to foster mutual understanding and better integrated lives.
  • Focus on *trying* to speak a language, as the act of communication is more valuable than perfect fluency.
  • Embrace embarrassing moments in language learning; they can be opportunities for laughter, connection, and making friends.
  • Don't let concerns about counting languages or achieving high levels prevent you from speaking and connecting.

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