10 Lifetime Benefits of Learning English

Here are 10 ways you can benefit from learning English and how BELS Malta can help you start your English-learning journey

1. It’s one of the most widely spoken languages

English is the official language of 53 countries and is spoken as a first language by around 400 million people worldwide. Then there are the ex-British colonies, which still recognise English as an official language. It adds up to approximately 400 million people who speak English as a first language and 1,500 million who speak English. That’s a lot of countries to visit and people to talk to.

2. You get more from travelling

When you need to communicate with someone abroad, you first ask, “Do you speak English?”

Travelling in a country where you don’t speak the primary language can be limiting. Whether you’re lost and need to be pointed in the right direction, or even if you’d like to chat with someone on the train. Apart from that, most countries have signages and schedules in English in addition to their primary language.

If you learn English, your communication will be unlimited; you can meet new people and learn about new cultures. Most importantly, you’re less likely to get lost or confused.

3. You can connect with more people

Sometimes, connections are instant – you share a look or moment with someone and quickly become friends. But having a deep and lasting connection is challenging without speaking the same language. It’s difficult to share thoughts about intense topics and express yourself freely. At these times, language becomes a barrier between a light friendship and a genuine bond. If you learn English, you’re opening yourself up to millions of people and connections – a long-life friend or even a soulmate. 

4. Opens up a new world of literature, pop culture

Every language has beautiful literature – why limit yourself to one? Translations are never the same. The meaning and sorry might be retained, but how authors beautifully craft the language cannot be replicated. It’s also the language of the internet, memes, most commercial songs and Hollywood movies (and Netflix series!).

5. You can feel at home anywhere in the world

Relocating to a country where you can speak English also makes things easier. While you might be able to get around a foreign land without speaking its language, more extended stays can get tiresome and tedious if you have yet to learn what’s going on around you. When you learn English, you can settle down, work or retire anywhere in the world.

6. A new language leads to a new mindset

There’s a Czech idiom that says something along the lines of ‘you have as many personalities as the number of languages you speak’. Languages aren’t just words and grammar – they’re a living representation of the culture and the people. Different languages express the same concept in different ways. New idioms, metaphors and associations are all a part of learning a new language. So, when you learn English, you’re absorbing a new way of thinking and communicating. A new layer is added to your personality.

7. It’s the language of business

In today’s global world, any business needs English to survive. Anyone with excellent English skills will have the upper hand in the business environment. Learning English will boost your employment potential or help you get that promotion you’ve been dreaming of. Apart from that, you can apply for jobs internationally if you learn English. You don’t have to worry about not finding a job related to your studies in your country.

8. And knowledge

Essentially, English is the language of the internet. It gives you access to major news portals, academic journals and publications, and personal blogs on various topics. Whether for personal use, studies or work, you’ll have access to more data if you learn English.

9. You can study at any university in the world.

Since English is spoken in many countries, thousands of universities and colleges worldwide offer English study programmes. In addition, most of the world’s renowned universities are in English-speaking countries. To join these universities, you usually need an IELTS score of 6 or 7 (equivalent to the intermediate to upper intermediate level of English). Knowing English increases your chances of finding an appropriate school and course to follow your passion and reach your goals.

10. Learning a language is mentally stimulating.

Learning a language is one of the best and most practical ways to increase intelligence and keep your mind sharp. You’ll become a better decision-maker, multi-tasker, and generally more focused person. It also keeps your brain from ageing. It’s like a gym membership for your mind.

Start your English Learning Journey with BELS Language Schools.

Take your English to the next level and join one of our boutique English schools on the Mediterranean islands of Malta and Gozo. You can learn in an immersive way on an English-speaking Island with rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. As a student in our schools, you will be part of a welcoming student community, allowing you to make international friends and enrich your learning experience. Write to us at [email protected] and we’ll get in touch to learn more about your goals and help map out a personalised learning plan.