Tips To Learn Chinese

Inspired by Seth Godin’s book The Practice I’ve compiled some of his most important suggestions and adapted them to the context of learning Chinese. Please note that while this book is not specifically about language learning, the tips shared within it can be effectively applied to enhance your language learning journey.

最近我看完了赛斯·戈丁的《The Practice》，很受启发。今天整理了一些书中很实用的建议，结合中文学习分享给你，希望对你有所帮助。

• Commit to the Process
  Godin emphasizes the importance of regular practice. For Chinese learners, this means dedicating time each day to studying, practicing speaking, and immersing yourself in Chinese. Consistency is key to building fluency. If you want to learn how to create habits for building consistency, you can read one of the first newsletters I ever shared with you: How to Build Better Habits That Help You Learn Chinese

  书中作者强调了定期练习的重要性，对于中文学习来说，就意味着每天坚持口语的输入和输出，并为自己营造中文学习环境。如何养成每天练习的习惯呢？这里我分享了一些实用的技巧。

• Embrace Imperfection
  Perfection is not the goal; progress is. Many students are afraid to speak, write, or make mistakes. However, learning from errors is a vital part of the process that leads to improvement. This is one of the main reasons that, even though English is taught in schools across China, very few people will speak English to you. People are afraid to speak and afraid to make mistakes in English.

  完美并不是目标，进步才是。许多学生害怕犯错，不管是说话还是写作。其实犯错是学习的一部分，更是非常重要的一部分。在中国也一样，中国学生的课程里是有英语这门课的，但如果你去过中国会发现，很少有人会主动用英文和你交流，因为大家都害怕自己英文讲得不够完美。

  You need to break free from this mindset and dare to use the language without fear. People are always happy when you talk to them in their native tongue, and no one will care about any language mistakes you make. So don’t see not speaking Chinese perfectly as your enemy.

  努力使自己摆脱这种害怕犯错的思维设定，大胆地开口说。其实你知道当人们听到你用他们的母语交流时，更多的是惊喜和开心。

• Focus on the Work, Not the Outcome
  Students often worry about achieving fluency quickly. Focus on your daily practice instead of obsessing over when you’ll become fluent. What matters most is the learning journey. If you put too much pressure on yourself, language learning will stop being fun.

  与其过分在意何时能达到目标，不如先专注于每天的练习，从日常的中文学习中找到乐趣。如果一味地盯着目标，给自己太多压力，语言学习会变成一件非常痛苦的事。

• Practice Publicly
  Godin suggests sharing your work. Practice speaking with others, whether in class or through language exchange groups. Take part in Chinese learning challenges or play games in Chinese with others. Engaging in real conversations boosts confidence and accelerates learning.

  分享你的学习成果。无论在中文课上，还是平时加入的学习小组，都积极地用中文交流。当语言运用到实践中，会给你巨大的成就感，这使你有更大的动力继续学习。

  On Instagram, I’ve noticed more and more channels where Chinese learners document and share their learning journeys and tips with others. You can try doing the same (on any platform). It’s a great way to stay motivated and hold yourself accountable.

  我在 Instagram 看到很多人在记录自己学习中文的过程，也会分享学习技巧。其实这也是一个激励自己的好方法，你不妨也试试。

• Be Open to Feedback
  Receiving constructive criticism is essential for growth. Get feedback from teachers, language partners, and try to identify areas for improvement so you can refine your skills.

接受建设性的批评也很重要。你可以和老师或者身边的中文朋友沟通，寻求他们的建 议和反馈，帮助你更高效地提高中文。

• Diversify Learning Methods
  Godin highlights the importance of varied experiences. Use different resources like apps, videos, podcasts, and reading materials to keep your learning engaging and effective. If you’re reading this, you’re already in the best place, as I’ve already recommended many resources, and more are on the way.

  作者也提到了多样化体验的重要性。使用不同的资源，比如中文学习软件、视频、播客，阅读材料等等来练习，以保持学习的趣味性。

• Cultivate Patience
  Learning Chinese is a marathon, not a sprint. Building fluency takes time, and cultivating patience will help you stay committed to the process.

  中文学习是一场马拉松，希望你有耐心一直坚持跑下去，直到看见自己理想的结果。

• Prioritize Consistency Over Intensity
  Godin stresses that it's better to practice a little bit every day than to cram all at once. Create a sustainable routine that includes daily practice, even if it’s just for a short period.

  日常的积累非常重要，为自己设定一个可实施的计划，并坚持下去，即使是每天几分钟也没关系。写到这里想和你分享一个成语：水滴石穿。

The key to learning Chinese is to show up, practice consistently, and enjoy the process. There may not be shortcuts, but with dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace challenges, you'll find yourself making progress step by step. Trust the process, and fluency will come in time. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and celebrate every little victory along the way!

学习中文虽然没有捷径，但只要你保持学习的热情，并愿意在每次遇到困难时坚持下去，就会发现自己一直在进步。也一定记得在每次进步时奖励自己！

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