Starting from the beginning and doing something for the first time is exciting. It can also feel hard and impossible not to compare myself to others. Thoughts constantly running in my heard such as:
"I want to be as good as they are”
“I will never be as good as them, it will take forever to speak a new language”
“I am starting all the way from the beginning, what’s the point?"
Then I remind myself of all the reasons I should be starting now and how that is a beautiful thing. How brave it is to start something new and go for something that you have always wanted to achieve. To not compare, but to instead be excited to challenge yourself and connect with others.
During my experience at Spanish Adventure, I experienced many different emotions about learning a new language. At first, it was extremely difficult not being able to express myself fully or understand others around me. Feeling like I was missing out by not being able to understand what was being discussed or why others were laughing during lunch. The more I surrounded myself constantly with Spanish conversation, the easier I was able to tune in and focus simply on the words I understood. This allowed me to have some context to possibly understand what they were saying. As time went on, I began to learn more words slowly week by week and by the fourth week I went from understanding 10% to 40% of the conversations!
Daily lessons with Rafa!
This also was the case for my daily lessons. During my lessons, learning a new concept such as SER and ESTAR, or PARA or POR, or as simple as saying “I take it” was nearly impossible for me to understand. I felt extremely frustrated with myself that I was unable to remember concepts or words after my class and to be honest, was ready to walk away and throw in the towel. It was then I had a moment of clarity- that I will never be able to learn a new language in its entirety in a few weeks. It takes time, energy, love and immersion to grow. It was when I realized this and stopped putting so much pressure on myself that concepts began to click and stay. I decided to let my guard down and started to speak more in Spanish with everyone at the school and in town. To know that there is no judgement, and I am at Spanish Adventure to learn and make mistakes, because you always learn from your mistakes! I let go of caring if I took five minutes to form a question, but instead be proud of myself for trying.
In addition to incredible Spanish classes, the daily adventures and the beautiful nature of San Carlos helped the learning process tremendously. Having the time and opportunity to enjoy the refreshing rivers and picturesque mountains was the perfect way to decompress after class. It also allowed for more Spanish conversation and a way to learn about the culture of San Carlos and Colombia. The endless number of waterfalls and lush green forests filled with colorful birds and plants was the perfect way to enjoy our days.
JUST DO IT
Yes, I just copied the Nike slogan. In all honesty, it is truly one of my favorites to live by. It's so true, just do it...go for whatever you want to do.
Getting started is where most of the resistance lies. Once that part is over, the rest will flow. Not getting overwhelmed with comparisons and "what if's", but just start and enjoy yourself and the process. All your desires, goals, wishes and dreams. It may sound crazy and hard to believe but trust me... they can all come true. If you believe in it, if you trust that you can do it and you put your actions behind your words, the universe will guide you exactly as you need. So, is learning a new language something you have always wanted to do? Have you always wanted to travel to Colombia? Or live in an authentic small village and feel like a local?
Well then...Check out Spanish adventure! Immerse yourself in the beautiful culture of San Carlos and finally learn Spanish. Remember, JUST DO IT!