Language Learning For Introverts: 8 Things You Need to Know

I’m an introvert, but it took me years to understand what that means, and how that affects my language learning.

In this post on language learning for introverts, I'll share some tips on how to make the most of your introversion when learning a language.

If you prefer watching videos to reading, then you can watch a video version of this post below. You can also listen to this post if you're more of a podcast fan.

Otherwise, continue reading to discover my best learning strategies for introverts.

Language Learning For Introverts: 8 Things To Keep In Mind

You may be wondering “Can introverts learn other languages with ease or not?”

The answer is, you'll see that learning a new language as an introvert can actually turn out to be a superpower if you know how to harness it.

If you're an introvert language learning may seem tough at first. But if you're struggling, just keep these tips in mind.

1. Being An Introvert Means Different Things To Different People

Yes, you can be introverted and outgoing. (Like me.)

You can also be extroverted and shy.

Me personally – I’m very social, but I quickly run out of energy and need to be alone.

When you understand your introversion, you can play to your strengths and enjoy language learning more.

2. There’s No Rush To Start Speaking

Don’t be fooled – learning a new language does not mean speaking from the start.

Speaking can come later in the learning process. Much later. Months later.

As an introvert, you’ll enjoy speaking much more if you can actually communicate. So don’t rush! Can introverts learn without speaking? Not likely, but you just need to wait until you know enough words, phrases and grammar to have a real conversation.

3. Learning A Language Doesn’t Mean Talking To Strangers

There’s nothing I hate more than practising a new language with strangers.

It’s high-pressure, socially awkward, and hard to talk about anything meaningful anyway.

I used to think there was something wrong with me.

But then I realised that my secret to learning to speak was…

4. Create “Safe” Speaking Environments

How do introverts learn? When they are in control.

In control of who you’re speaking to, when, and where.

You’ll feel more comfortable, manage your energy better, and enjoy it far more.

So…

5. Focus On A Few Strong Relationships, Over Meeting Random People

When I learn a language, I spend most of my time with 2-3 people.

Language partners, tutors, friends.

When I have strong relationships, I don’t care about practising with strangers.

6. Master Common Greetings

The first interaction is often hardest – talking to a stranger, asking for things in a shop, being introduced to someone.

To control the anxiety, get really good at conversation starters and asking questions.

You’ll have more confidence to use the language when it matters.

7. Focus On Input-Based Learning

Use methods that focus on input – reading and listening.

You’ll learn the language naturally, which gives you a strong foundation to start speaking later.

Play to your strengths as an introvert.

Methods like StoryLearning® are designed for self-study, which means you can make the most of your alone time.

8. Introverts Have Superpowers!

Extroverts can struggle to be alone, which makes studying hard.

As an introvert, what are your strengths? Discover what they are, and think of them as a superpower – not a weakness.

You’ll learn faster, and enjoy language learning more!

Language Learning For Introverts

So there you have it – 8 language learning tips for introverts.

I hope these tips on language learning for introverts will help you to harness your learning powers.

What does being an introvert mean to you? Leave me a comment on Instagram and let me know. If you enjoyed this post, share these tips with an introvert friend!

Olly Richards

Creator of the StoryLearning® Method

Olly Richards is a renowned polyglot and language learning expert with over 15 years of experience teaching millions through his innovative StoryLearning® method. He is the creator of StoryLearning, one of the world's largest language learning blogs with 500,000+ monthly readers.

Olly has authored 30+ language learning books and courses, including the bestselling "Short Stories" series published by Teach Yourself.

When not developing new teaching methods, Richards practices what he preaches—he speaks 8 languages fluently and continues learning new ones through his own methodology.