If you’re learning Spanish (or any new language), you’ve probably experienced moments of doubt, frustration, and even embarrassment. First, let’s say it loud and clear:
That’s 100% normal. You’re not alone.
Language learning isn’t just about memorizing words and grammar rules — it’s a deeply personal, humbling, and sometimes awkward journey. But every struggle you face is a sign that you’re growing.
Let’s talk about some of the most common frustrations — and why they’re actually part of the process.
1️⃣ “I understand more than I can say!”
You listen to conversations and recognize the words, but when it’s your turn to speak — you freeze.
✅ This is normal. Receptive skills (listening and reading) always develop before productive ones (speaking and writing). Keep listening. Keep practicing. The words will come.
2️⃣ “I keep making the same mistakes!”
Maybe it’s verb conjugations. Maybe it’s gender (el vs. la). Maybe you still say por when you mean para.
✅ This is also normal. Your brain needs repetition and correction over time. Language learning is not linear — it’s more like a spiral. You’ll revisit concepts again and again.
3️⃣ “I get embarrassed when I talk.”
You know what you want to say… but you’re afraid of saying it wrong or sounding silly.
✅ Guess what? Making mistakes is how you learn. Locals often appreciate the effort and will help you improve if you’re open to it. Courage builds fluency.
4️⃣ “I feel stuck — like I’m not improving.”
Language plateaus are real. At first, you improve quickly, and then progress slows down.
✅ That’s your brain consolidating knowledge. Push through by trying new things: watch a show in Spanish, journal, or have a conversation with a native speaker.
5️⃣ “I compare myself to others.”
Maybe someone else in your class is picking it up faster, and it makes you feel behind.
✅ Everyone has a different learning style, background, and pace. You don’t need to be perfect — you just need to keep showing up.
💡 Here’s what you can do when it gets frustrating:
- Celebrate small wins (like ordering food in Spanish or understanding a song lyric).
- Remind yourself why you started.
- Practice with kind, supportive people.
- Give yourself permission to be a beginner.
Learning a language is hard, but it’s also worth it. It opens doors, builds connections, and shows you what you’re capable of. The frustration you feel today is shaping the fluent version of you tomorrow.
So breathe, laugh at your mistakes, and keep going. You’ve got this! 💪
P.S. If you’re a Spanish learner, you might want to check out our Spanish courses (for healthcare workers, teachers and general Spanish learners).
