Greetings, everyone! 🌟
I’ve had the pleasure of calling Japan home for over 7 years now. Without a doubt, Japanese has become second nature for me in everyday life. Additionally, being part of a global team means seamlessly switching between English, Mandarin, and Japanese to collaborate with colleagues from all corners of the world.
To be candid, I’m no linguistic prodigy. Hailing from Taipei, Taiwan, Mandarin and Taiwanese were my first languages. English? Well, let’s just say my journey with it had its share of bumps, even through my school years. It wasn’t until my twenties that I ventured into learning Japanese out of sheer interest. While I did manage to attain an N3 certification after a year of dedicated study, balancing work and learning was no easy feat. I even dabbled in French for a spell, though my repertoire now consists mainly of basic pleasantries.
Navigating a multilingual environment like mine requires more than just language proficiency; it demands a blend of adaptability and cultural awareness. Take our European counterparts, for instance—they effortlessly navigate between languages thanks to their rich cultural tapestry. As a Taiwanese designer living in Japan, I’ve learned to find common ground through shared interests and experiences.Thankfully, my love for travel and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds keeps my motivation soaring. Plus, having a Japanese partner adds an extra layer of cultural immersion and inspiration.
Now, onto my approach to language learning: a mix of structured learning and immersive experiences. From indulging in foreign films and podcasts to casual hangouts with friends, I find joy in every opportunity to expand my linguistic horizons. And let’s not forget my weekly online English sessions with my esteemed teacher from across the Pacific.However, with increased focus on second and third languages, I’ve noticed a slight dip in my proficiency in my mother tongue. To counter this, I stay connected with my Taiwanese roots through regular communication with friends and curated podcasts from home.
In the end, language learning is a journey—one that requires dedication, consistency, and a touch of humor. While professionalism is paramount, injecting a bit of levity into the mix fosters a more enjoyable and collaborative work environment.
Here’s to embracing diversity, fostering connections, and continuing to grow together as a global team. Cheers! 🌍✨