Why 2021 is the perfect time to learn English

2020 is the perfect time to learn English. With the start of a new year comes new goals to set, challenges to overcome, and habits to form.

Don’t you think it’s finally time to make learning English one of them?

In this post, I’ll share my top 5 reasons why 2018 is the perfect time to learn English. To see why other English-learners just like you think now is the best time, I asked my friends around the world to share some of their ideas.

Let’s dive right into what we came up with!

English is for World Travelers

As budget bus and airline companies compete to offer the lowest prices, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and BlaBlaCar provide options for covering distances both near and far, traveling has never been easier than it is now in 2020!

Why not learn about a new culture abroad?

While it’s not always certain that your native language will be spoken where you’re going, you’ll always be able to find a tour given in English no matter where you go!

Make Some New Friends

Plus, although it’s not the most widely spoken language in terms of actual number of speakers (that honor goes to Mandarin), English is still spoken in more countries as either the de facto language or as the ‘bridge language’.

This means that knowing even a little English will help you meet and interact with people in most countries you visit, as it’s often the language used to allow communication between individuals who don’t share a common native tongue.

More Opportunities at Top Universities Open for English Speakers

Not only is it useful for travel, but English is also without a doubt the most commonly studied foreign language in the world, and for good reason:

Many of the world’s most prestigious universities deliver academic lectures and texts in English, and international students are therefore required to pass an English-language proficiency exam like the TOEFL or IELTS to gain entry.

As a result, learning English will open doors to a better education, as well as….

Improve Your Chances to Land a Better-Paying Job

Earning your degree from a highly-respected university is just the beginning of what’s possible for you as an English speaker.

So, what else can you do with your new English skills?

In 2018, employers will continue looking to hire individuals who can effectively communicate with international clients and colleagues around the world, and English is the common link language for this.

If your English-language skills are strong, you’ll be an asset to your company in an ever-changing and growing global economy.

Keep Up with Pop-Culture

From television series to magazines and books, a significant amount of pop-culture is delivered in English every year.

As one English-learner told me:

‘Everything is written in English. Series are in English…sometimes their translations are not accurate.’

I’ve heard this complaint from several people who’ve tried watching an English series dubbed over in their native language:

Not only are the translations often incorrect, but I’ve been told the voice acting can be unbearable to listen to if it doesn’t match the characters well!

Plus, English is still the king of communication when it comes to the Internet and its users.

If you want to make sure you’re not SOL when it’s time to LOL at new memes or movies in 2018, make it your mission to learn some English slang and phrases you can use amongst friends.  This way, you won’t be left in the dark while your English-speaking friends are cracking up or talking about the latest episode of your favorite show!

Final Thoughts on Why 2018 Is the Perfect Time to Learn English

You can connect with new people as you travel, stay updated with the latest trends and shows, and gain access to better opportunities in both education and employment.

Maybe you’ve wanted to improve your English for a while now but felt nervous about trying it, and that’s ok!

Learning or improving a skill can be tough, but I think my Spanish friend has the right attitude:

‘Why learn English in 2020?

Because it is time to set a deadline for your goal.

Although it would have been great to master it already…it’s never too late to realize a dream.’