Why You Should Learn Spanish

There are so many great reasons to learn Spanish: practical business reasons, curiosity, love of people, cultural exploration, travel, and more. No matter what your motivations are, learning Spanish will benefit you for the rest of your life. Here are some of the best reasons why you should learn Spanish.

Spanish is an important world language

More than 400 million people around the world speak Spanish, making it the second most-frequently spoken language on Earth, behind Chinese and ahead of English (if you count only native speakers). It is an official language on 4 continents, the mother tongue in 21 countries, widely spoken in 21 others, and it is of historical significance worldwide. It is the second most used language in international communication, and an official language of the United Nations and its organizations. One in seven United States citizens and residents speaks Spanish as their primary language, and the Spanish-speaking population of the United States is also growing much faster than the average.

Learning Spanish can help your professional career

While this is true of almost all professions, of course a career in international business, communications, and tourism benefit from new language skills. If you are in healthcare or education, the benefits are also huge. In any case, knowing Spanish will help you communicate with Spanish-speaking employees or co-workers.

Hispanic consumers are the fastest-growing market segment in North America. Their population in the United States grew by 60% in just one decade and their buying power is estimated at over $1 billion. Worldwide, there are around 400 million people who could potentially benefit from the products and services of your business. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to have Spanish on your résumé.

Learning Spanish is relatively easy

Spanish is one of the easiest foreign languages to learn. The written language is extremely consistent, and there are only 5 vowel sounds (compared to 15 in English!). Many of the Latin root words in Spanish have English counterparts, making vocabulary acquisition much easier.

Learning Spanish can also help you learn other languages. Learning the structure of a language gives you a reference point for learning others. Like making millions of dollars, it gets easier after the first one because you have done it before and have more resources.

Learning Spanish is fun

Whether you enjoy listening to new music, watching sports, learning to cook new things, reading famous literature, or just mastering interesting challenges, you’ll find them all in learning Spanish. Learning languages is also its own reward. You’ll find satisfaction and perspective that can only come from understanding other people and their culture.

Learning Spanish will take your travel experiences to the next level

Knowing Spanish can be the difference between a getaway and an adventure. It’s not just about being able to read the menu, either. It’s about getting outside of a hotel or resort and actually connecting with interesting people and experiences. Do you want to observe the world, or participate in it? It can even help you make the world a better place. Knowing Spanish can empower you to make a difference in the lives of people around the world.

Learning Spanish will make you smarter

Many English words came from Latin by way of French. Since Spanish is also a Latin language, you will increase your understanding of English vocabulary as you study it. Students who learn another language also score higher on tests in all subjects, especially Math and English. Not only that, it actually gives both children and adults improved critical thinking skills and creativity.

Learning Spanish is good for your health

No, really. Learning another language reduces your chances of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease. The cells that make up your brain are similar to those that make up your muscles, and if they get used, they stay healthy and strong longer. Besides, you’ll just feel more alive.