Why you should listen more and how to do it

Listening practice is an essential part of learning a foreign language. It helps to improve pronunciation, comprehension, and overall fluency. Finding opportunities to listen to the language used to be a challenge, especially if you didn't have access to native speakers or live in a non-immersion environment. Fortunately, modern technology has made it much easier to get more listening practice on a regular basis.

The best way to incorporate more listening practice into your daily routine is to use language learning apps or podcasts while doing activities that don't require much concentration, such as driving, commuting, cooking, doing housework, or working out. These apps and podcasts often offer a variety of listening materials, from news and conversations to music and movies, so you can choose what interests you most.

Another way to get more listening practice is to watch foreign language films or TV shows with subtitles. This can be a fun and engaging way to immerse yourself in the language, and you can pause and rewind as needed to make sure you understand what's being said. You can also try listening to foreign language music, which can be a great way to learn new vocabulary and familiarize yourself with the rhythms and melodies of the language.

Films and music are not very efficient compared to the previous method though, because music lyrics are different from how people speak in real life and films require you to take the time to sit down and watch them. You can listen to podcasts all day while you do something else. 

You can easily get 2-3 hours of listening practice a day this way, if you plan your day well. Once you develop the habit of listening and you find content you like, you will do it automatically without even having to think about it. And trust me, results will come quickly: Both your comprehension and your speaking will improve immensely in a few months if you do this.

Get in touch if you need help planning your language learning routine.