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12/06/2010Learning Dutch without tears

Learning Dutch without tears Language expert Albert Both explains why learning Dutch isn’t that difficult and offers some tips on how to approach learning the Dutch language effectively.

Most newcomers to the Netherlands fully intend to learn the Dutch language; a goal which springs from a natural desire to communicate with the people of their new country of residence.

However, despite an initial ‘noble’ effort, many people simply give up.

Why this happens could stem from a common belief is that Dutch is very difficult—after all, even Dutch people say this. However it simply isn’t true.  Dutch is far easier than German and is scientifically proven to be the closest language to English.

So, it should be relatively easy to learn…in theory at least.  However, what stops most people isn’t words or grammar but rather how they think about learning the Dutch language.

Let’s look at the Dutch natives.  Most of the people speak English, and quite often even more languages.  Most Dutch people also admit that ‘speaking English is easy’ for them. Isn’t this suspicious?  People from other countries usually never say that speaking English is easy. On the contrary, they’re more likely to say that English is difficult.  Sure, the Dutch could be much smarter and more intelligent than anyone else in the world, and for Dutch people this is an attractive thought, naturally. The question is: is it true?

Most Dutch people speak English, simply because the Dutch and English languages are quite similar. They can see it, and, what’s more, there is another difference that is even more important. The Dutch psychology for speaking languages is completely different!

This is great news. It means that English speaking people can learn Dutch much faster and with much more fun than they might have imagined.

The most common thoughts which hamper people from learning the Dutch language are: Dutch is difficult, illogical and irregular and, Dutch is not important.  All these thoughts are an illusion.

Dutch is a logical and consistent language and Dutch is important. After all, within the Netherlands, where you live, it is the most effective communication tool.

Changing your mind about learning Dutch

Although many people think that learning a language is all about knowing words and grammar, this is only partially true. It isn’t even only a matter of thinking. 

One of the most essential elements is how you feel about learning Dutch.

Only positive feelings and massive fun will bring you to the results that you want! 

Most people think of giving up due to having negative feelings about learning the language.

So change your mind. After all, learning the Dutch language while living in the Netherlands could enhance all the great things that you want to do in your life now and give you the greatest chance to succeed both in your personal and professional life.

Albert Both, Talencoach

Talencoaches free e-book reveals how to go about learning Dutch without pain.

Albert BothAlbert Both of Talencoach gives free workshops twice a month (the next one is on 8 July) to help you get into the learning process. Once you are on a ‘learning roll’, according to Albert. Visit www.talencoach.nl/openday for more information.


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