First of all, I must say that I'm not an English expert. I'm just an English learner. I don't speak English like a native speaker, but I can use basic English in daily life and in the workplace. When I was 19, my English level was zero. Looking back on my learning journey, I know I have improved this language greatly. I always ask myself why and how I can go this far. I think the answer is the formula "a clear goal, strong motivation, firm discipline, and love combined."
1, A clear goal
I was like, "I want to get better English", but I was unsure, "what is better English?". My goal was so hazy, so I didn't have a clear daily action plan to shorten my English learning process. I still achieved something, but It was not productive in the end. I think the game has changed since I set up my clear English goals in numbers at the CEFR level. For example, C1 advanced according to CEFR, IELTS "xx, "xx numbers of active, and passive vocabulary, etc. My picture now is more apparent, and I know exactly what I have to do daily to achieve these goals. We don't need to take the real CEFR or IELTS test, but we can use the test framework to improve our level because it's very clear.
2, My strong motivation
I think "my strong motivation" is the big "Why". I always write down the reasons why I must learn English. When I was in university, my "Why" was the fear of unemployment if I had bad English and humiliation when ranked last in my English class. Now, I have another big "Why". Maybe I can't share with you guys now, but I know that "Why" is very powerful to me now. It is like a green tree in my heart. Whenever I want to give up or I feel unsure about my path, I remind myself of this "Why", and I come through a hard time.
I know some people who want to learn English to avenge their ex-lovers. I think it's a strong motivation, and it may really help. If your reason is just about "I want to learn English to be more confident,". I think it's still helpful, but It's not strong enough. Let's find out more big "Why".
3, Firm discipline
As human beings, we are lazy so many times. For instance, sometimes I encounter new difficult English words, and I don't want to learn these words. It's too hard. But, I don't let myself maintain this lazy status all the time. It will not take me to any destination I want to reach in English. From Q4 2021 until now, I've been learning English every single day; even on some days, my mood is not good to learn anything. I still do it. I will call it "discipline", and I take English from B1 level to B2 level. I firmly believe that I have to be harsh on myself for a while because every transformation needs a pain called "discipline".
4, And love
Steve Jobs said, "The only way to do great work is to love what you do". I can feel this quote. When I love English, I take myself to the next level. I can learn English day and night and don't get tired. Being surrounded by English is the time I really enjoy, and it boosts my energy. Yes, sometimes I feel lazy, but in general, I still love learning English. I try new ways to improve my English, which cultivates my joy. I think I will never stop learning and discovering because of my love for English. English has become an essential part of my life. It's a way to give me happiness, and I don't want to lose it. Maybe motivation and discipline can bring me on this learning journey for some years, but the love of English will bring this language to the rest of my life, and I will never stop learning English.
I think I can apply this formula in other aspects of life, not just in English. I see the same thing when It comes to business or anything I learn and do in my life. This one sticks in my mind "a clear goal, strong motivation, firm discipline, and love combined." And I believe that good things will come someday if I keep doing them. Just hang in there and never give up.
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