Sometimes you might focus only on the things you should start doing when learning English; but it's just as important to consider the things you should STOP doing! In order to make the most of your efforts, keep a tally of the times you fall on the following obstacles:
#1 - STOP TRANSLATING
Unfortunately it's an easy short cut to use handy software to translate a foreign language into your native language, or visa versa. Instead of taking that short cut, force yourself to struggle so that you start strengthening your own mental software.
#2 - STOP BEING AFRAID OF MAKING MISTAKES
One reason that young children tend to learn so much faster is their innate ability to have fun without the fear of what they look like. It's not until we allow peer pressure to become important that we shut down when we fear we may not speak perfectly.
#3 - STOP BEING NERVOUS
Back to the Fun Factor, allow yourself to enjoy the learning process and relax knowing nobody is perfect. Develop the skill to laugh at yourself and laugh with others.
#4 - STOP TAKING THINGS PERSONALLY
People may not always understand you when you try to speak in a foreign language; but try not to take it personally. Most native speakers actually think your mistakes are cute, and they admire your attempts ... I know I do!
#5 - STOP LEAVING YOUR LEARNING IN THE CLASSROOM
Learning is more effective if you use the new words and phrases outside the classroom. Join English chat rooms; find English speakers; read English articles and books; watch English movies!
#6 - DON'T GIVE UP
Keep your eyes on your ultimate goal and keep taking steps, however small, towards your achieving that goal. Some lessons will be easier or more difficult than others; but they all add up to success if you keep putting one foot in front of the other!
#7 - STOP WORRYING
Don't worry, be happy! It's all just for fun in the end anyway, something that should bring you more joy than pain. Ask yourself what exactly you're worried about, and if you say it out loud you probably will find that your worry actually doesn't make sense in reality.
#8 - STOP COMPARING YOURSELF
We're all snowflakes, each with a special design and special gifts. Your goals will not be exactly the same as someone else ... enjoy your unique journey!
#9 - STOP USING OUTDATED METHODS
Studying in isolation or in large classrooms without the opportunity to push yourself and be pushed will not give you the best results. Make sure your teacher is an expert of using the latest technology and methods to make your learning more effective and fun!
#10 - STOP NEGLECTING YOUR WEAKER SKILLS
It's tempting to focus on your strongest skills and neglect something that you struggle with. The path of least resistance is definitely not your best path for learning, so this is another opportunity to push yourself into the less comfortable.
#11 - STOP SPENDING TOO MUCH TIME STUDYING
Make sure you use what you learn with fun exercises and activities. Language is meant for communication to enrich your life, not isolate you in a classroom.
#12 - STOP THINKING OF LEARNING AS A CHORE
Achieving your dream of communicating in a foreign language is an exciting adventure that is more fun than the latest video game (unless that video game is teaching you English)!
Those are the STOPS ... now push the START button to open up the World of Learning with a simple message to MY WAY ENGLISH. We're here to make your dreams come true!