Reflecting on February, it stands out as a quiet chapter in my life, consumed mainly by the challenges of my SVA2-level Swedish studies. This is why I have been quiet on my blog. I grappled with many emotions, battling persistent doubts about my perseverance. I’m tempted to abandon the course altogether. Learning Swedish is no longer fun; it’s more like a chore. And getting the feeling that my work is not commensurate with the grades I deserve makes it sting a tad more.

I also know what my weaknesses are — for example, I have a poor memory, and I tend to want to overdo things. I thought I had great focus, but the truth is I also need to consider the audience I’m talking to (my fellow classmates), so as important as it is to satisfy my own learning in what I produced, I also must consider the target. Public speaking is hard enough in one’s own native language; imagine doing it in a different language…

However, amidst the quiet turmoil, I discovered valuable strategies that helped me navigate the tough times and fortified my determination to see the course through to its conclusion. For fellow language learners facing similar struggles, here are some tips that proved invaluable to me:

Acknowledge and accept feelings: It is essential to recognize and accept the emotions that arise during the learning process. Acknowledging these feelings allows us to confront them head-on, whether they are frustration, self-doubt, or anxiety.

Break it down: When the journey feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on mastering one aspect of the language at a time, whether vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation.

Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek peer, teacher, or online community support. Sharing our struggles with others who understand can provide much-needed encouragement and motivation. This one is tough for me because I’m an introvert (which is why the flexible or distant nature of this study makes me so happy), but I managed. My hubby has been a great sounding board — the poor guy has to listen to my ‘ranting,’ but he knows I still do the work. I just need to get it off my chest.

Set realistic goals: Set achievable goals for our language learning journey. Celebrate small victories along the way, whether mastering a new phrase or completing a lesson. I celebrate with an order-in meal from Foodora and read my favorite book. The reading is especially important to me because, during my SVA study, I only have time to read whatever is assigned. For example, for a comparative analysis, I had to read two full-length novels that I normally would NOT read (not my cup of coffee or glass of prosecco, you know what I mean?), but I had to do it. Imagine the relief I felt when I finally could chuck them aside and get on with my life, reading the books I wanted to read.

Practice self-compassion: Be kind to ourselves during moments of frustration or setbacks. Remember that language learning is a journey, and making mistakes along the way is okay. Treat ourselves with the same patience and understanding we would offer a friend.

Find joy in learning: Incorporate activities that bring joy into our language learning routine. Whether watching foreign films, listening to music, or exploring cultural resources, finding enjoyment can reignite our passion for learning. As someone who has not watched TV for decades, I had to rewire myself completely for the sake of the language — I started watching the Swedish news, movies, and programs such as Idol, Robinson, etc. This is etched into my free time, but it’s necessary.

Visualize success: Envision the accomplishment and pride of mastering a new language, and let that vision propel us forward during challenging times.

As February draws close, I emerge from its quiet depths with a newfound resilience and determination. By embracing these strategies, I conquered my SVA2-level Swedish course and deepened my understanding of the language-learning journey as a whole.

I imagine SVA3 will be an even tougher nut to crack, so… here’s to facing challenges head-on (in March) and emerging stronger on the other side!