Learning Italian: A Journey of Persistence and Adaptability

Learning Italian: A Journey of Persistence and Adaptability

For many parents, learning a new language like Italian isn’t about exams but about practical applications, like running a business in the future. However, it’s crucial to note that learning isn’t just about sitting at a desk solemnly; that approach can only lead to becoming a bookworm with no flexibility. 📚

Life in a Dynamic Learning Environment

In the Chinese community in Europe, particularly in our family, there’s never a designated “study table.” Italian schools let out at 1 PM, and as soon as you’re home, there are countless distractions: it’s time to work, prepare food for younger siblings, shop for groceries, or even catch up on TV shows. The rare moments I carve out to study are often interrupted by chatter, movement, and general chaos.

From Zero to Med School

At 13, I started from square one with the Italian language, eventually gaining admission to medical school and now practicing in Germany. If there’s a so-called “secret” behind this achievement, it’s definitely my ability to learn amidst chaos. 💪

Overcoming Internal Turmoil

External noise is challenging, but the internal uncertainty can be even more daunting. When I dedicate an entire day to classic literature while others are busy trading stocks or attending skill workshops, I often have to wrestle with the thought: “Am I wasting my time?”. The struggle is real, but I’ve discovered a few methods to find my calm amidst the storm.

My Strategies for Effective Learning

1. Rituals for Focus

Before university, I rarely had a fixed place to study. However, I developed a ritual: making a cup of tea, putting on headphones, and creating a physical and emotional barrier from distractions. This simple practice helped me quickly achieve a state of “flow”—a moment where time and space seem to disappear, and the world is centered solely on my existence. 🌍

2. Task-Based Learning + Distraction Notebook

Instead of using a timer like the Pomodoro technique, I prefer a clear task-based approach that typically lasts around 90 minutes. Once completed, I stop. If I get distracted, I jot it down in my “distraction notebook” instead of trying to handle it immediately. The key here is understanding myself—whether it’s 90 minutes or 20, the focus is on collaborating with my own mind.

Learning in Chaos

Through this journey, I’ve come to realize that true learning isn’t initiated in silence. Instead, it emerges amidst chaos, leading to a profound sense of peace. So, embrace the disorder, and let learning be a dynamic and liberating experience! 🌈

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