So studying Japanese doesn't seem like a 'hobby' to me.
My degree was Asia Pacific Studies and in that I had to study Japanese for 4 years. And I had to study abroad there. And now I live there. And my boyfriend is a Japanese man...
My old 1 person apartment in Nisshin, Japan.
So yeah, Japan plays a big ol' part of my life.
Whoo...
But that's the problem! I've been doing Japanese for so long that it's become a chore. There is a lot about Japan that I hate, but I like living here (sounds daft, I know, but this is my blog so it DOESN'T sound daft. Ha). On top of all this my confidence in my own Japanese knowledge is at an all time low, and I don't think that foreigners in Japan are terribly supportive (not for me, but foreign support may be very important for other people).
So, why not try and revive my enthusiasm?!
Studying Japanese is neccessary so I wouldn't count it as a hobby, but looking for study theories has taken up quite a bit of time, so here's what I can share:
Steps for studying language (like Japanese) for a Beth like me:
1.
Take a step back, breathe, and look at where you are.
Tbh, I think it might be important to have a little break. In my case, I've just finished a rather intense load of Japanese study and I feel like I'm still closely linked to University. Every time I opened a book I would remember my strict classes :/ they stressed me out to the max.
Taking a weekend to think about what I could do to get back into Japanese really helped me look at how far I've come and what I can do for the future. Maybe, if you're in a rut like me, you should do the same thing!
2.
Ask for help/look for help.
I had a lot of encouraging help from friends on Facebook when I mentioned how low my confidence was. I was given so much good advice, like to think about what other people think of your own skill (it's never as bad as you think), remember that everyone feels inferior at some point, and also to ask for help no matter how bad you feel about it.
I have people I can ask (like my boyfriend), but I found some interesting things online too.
Steve Kaufmann (probably a very well known guy, tbh) has some interesting videos on different ways to study other than studying in a classroom environment. I don't watch his newer videos because I've been watching some of his 'general language learning' playlists. They're interesting, the guy is very opinionated and I believe that his confidence is rather encouraging for me. He does continuously advertise the website he works with, but tbh the website is incredibly useful too!
This guy is just an example, but seriously, youtube people and their confidence might actually help you if you are lacking.
3.
Do something you're interested in, don't stick with school books.
I didn't know it, but there are loads of places with interesting resources. I signed up to that Lingq thing because there was an advert recently about a 90 day challenege for people who have lost interest in language. I took it up and yeah, it's fun, there are a lot of recordings and texts and I don't see what harm it would do to sign up for it.
I also found Japanese pod 101, but I don't use it. I just found it when I searched for new ways to study Japanese.
But tbh, I think that skype and socialising are the best ways to do things your interested in. If you are in my position and have fallen out of love with a language, but know people who still love the language, then talk to your friends! Even skype them and pretend its like a language meeting or some crap! I kind of agree that it's too hard to just talk to people you don't know for the sake of language because it's awkward and not natural, so just do what you can!
4.
Remind yourself of what activities you liked the most.
I know someone who is amazing at applying himself, studying and maintaining his enthusaism no matter what he does. That is way annoying.
But maybe he has just found the right study techniques for him.
He uses flashcards, and when I first heard it I thought 'My god how boring', but he has these flashcards on his phone, on his computer, everywhere! They automatically hide the ones he knows well and keep giving him the flashcards he struggles with. It's quite dinky.
Personally, I'd rather make something or draw it... or even write something in Japanese. I also remember something from the JLPT N2 study book that really took my fancy.
From my book, a certain type of activity.
Personally, I like this type of activity because it kinda helps with grammar and vocab. I can't really explain properly though, I just like doing these questions. That's what I like so maybe that's what's best for me.
Remember that you can buy any textbook no matter what it's for. If you think you like the look of a JLPT book then buy it, even if you aren't taking any tests. What's stopping you? Or just use the questions on the website.
5.
Exercise while you study.
Me running around on the beach. Forget about the broken arm, I swear it won't happen to you...
I don't know if this is true, or if anyone agrees, but I think it keeps you happy and motivated if you take a study break by going for a run, or doing something active. It keeps me happy, stops me from being so lazy, and kind of keeps me motivated for study. Apparently it helps you take in more information too, but I'm not sure if that's true.
I used to go to the gym or just have a few minutes exercise in my room. Don't take it to the extreme though.
So! Maybe I'll add to this. I think I will very soon. (I've definitely forgotten a lot).
REMEMBER!
This is based off my own experiences and half arsed research so don't think it will apply to you! I mean, it might do, which is lovely, but if it doesn't, it doesn't really matter does it? There are a million other people out there who study languages, so have a good look! I'm doing the same thing!
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