How language learning can improve your life for the better

Samantha Ball
A group of friends smiling
Reading time: 7 minutes

Language learning is more than just something you study—it's a strategic move that integrates into every aspect of your life—socially, professionally and mentally. With English often being the common ground for global business, communicating effectively in this language has never been more important.
In this post, we uncover the benefits of language proficiency, particularly in English, backed by relevant statistics and insights from ɫèAV's recentground-breaking new research.

Earn up to 80% more with better English skills | ɫèAV Impact of English
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The transformative power of language proficiency

Did you know that 20% of the world's population speaks English as a first, second, or additional language? This underscores the vital role English plays in our global society.

Our research illustrates a compelling link between language proficiency and career development—highlighting that 80% of employees see English proficiency as critical for determining earning potential.

Fluency in English or any widely used language can boost your employability. It isn't simply a line on a resume; it's access to opportunities, potentially higher salaries and greater job satisfaction. Yet a noticeable gap exists between the language learned in formal education and the practical skills needed in the workplace.

What are the benefits to learning English?

There are several benefits to learning English or any new language but here are just a few examples to give you reasons to start learning today:

Bridging the skills gap

Here's the kicker—linguistic agility offers more than just a competitive edge professionally; it fosters better communication, enhances collaboration and enriches relationships in both personal and professional lives.

But how do modern language learners adapt to this demand? Gen Z learners are trailblazers, often turning to and to refine their English capabilities. Interactive technologies like online games and chat rooms find favor with this tech-savvy generation, reflecting a dynamic shift towards digital fluency.

Salary and social benefits

Speaking multiple languages boosts your social game; it positively correlates with higher salaries and elevates job opportunities. English proficiency is seen as a transformative investment, one that shapes both professional and personal dimensions of life.

Interestingly, the financial advantages of being proficient in languages, especially English, are significant. Studies suggest that bilingual individuals can earn between 5% to 20% more per hour compared to those who speak only one language. This "language premium" varies by industry and location but generally holds true across a range of professions.

With globalization at its peak, the ability to communicate in English not only enhances job prospects but directly translates into economic benefits. Language learning is not just an academic achievement but a smart career move.

There's growing advocacy for a skills-based approach instead of focusing solely on vocabulary and grammar. Practical application in speaking, writing, listening and reading can close the gap between classroom learning and real-world requirements.

Increase your cognitive ability

Learning foreign languages is proven in scientific research as a great way to retain brain power in a challenging way. Studies show brain changes in electrical structure and size when studying other languages —changes that are rare if learners learn a specific task or ability.

It is possible for someone (no matter their age) to gain more experience with linguistics and to learn more languages. Read more on our post ‘Being bilingual can help keep your brain in good condition’.

It makes other languages easier too

We often learn a language without consciously understanding its rules and many of us have no idea what rules they're going by. However, learning another language means learning all about the rules. Often, those who have learned their first language find themselves learning more of their native language, such as a more accurate vocabulary and a more accurate vocabulary than they expected. When you learn other Indo-European languages (for example French), you will likely find considerable quantities of borrowed vocabulary that will help you understand English.

You have access to more information and entertainment

Being more proficient in English also enables you to enjoy more digital content. Approximately 60% of online content is in English. This large amount of English online not only shapes the digital landscape, but also influences access to information and entertainment. For English learners, this dominance may represent a barrier to a wealth of knowledge and cultural exchange.

Equally, for those fluent in English, the language helps because it opens up an expansive universe of information, educational resources, cutting-edge research and global entertainment options that would otherwise be inaccessible. From streaming the latest Hollywood blockbusters to participating in online courses from prestigious universities around the globe, proficiency in English significantly expands your digital horizon.

Access world-class education systems and establishments

The other reason students have for studying English is that you'll have access to the world's best educational institutions. Some of the top universities in the world are either in the United States and Britain or use English in their courses and this means that English is crucial in applying. A high level of English is essential for a student studying in English at university.

Start a life in an English-speaking country

Another advantage of studying English is it offers the potential of moving to a foreign language country. Usually, to become a citizen in an English-speaking country, you must be fluent in English. Speaking and learning English can help increase job chances, improve communication skills and help people converse and communicate successfully.

Build deeper connections with more people

30% of people are learning English to make more friends, and it's no surprise. By being able to speak another language you can communicate clearly to a wider range of people, not only in your personal life but also professionally. This ability fosters deeper, more meaningful relationships and can open doors to understanding another culture and experiencing diverse cultures more intimately. Almost half of the respondents said that improving their English proficiency boosted their confidence levels in other areas of life, not just at work. The more progress you make, the more confident you feel.

Language proficiency enables you to engage in conversations beyond casual conversation, allowing for a richer, more authentic exchange of ideas and traditions from other cultures. The joy of connecting with someone in their first language is a rewarding experience that broadens your perspective and nurtures a global sensibility.

Boosts your confidence

Learning a new language, especially English, requires stepping out of your linguistic comfort zone. It can significantly boost your self-esteem and self-confidence. People with a lower level of proficiency often feel that better English would make them happier in life. The process of learning a language is empowering, and every new word learned and every conversation understood serves as a milestone, reinforcing the learner's belief in their abilities.

Sometimes, unclear communication can be a setback to your confidence, especially in a professional setting. Our research has discovered that 72% of the respondents believe their job would be easier if they had a better grasp of the English language. Furthermore, only 10% of employees with limited English proficiency feel that they can articulate themselves fully at work.

The confidence gained from improving language skills can extend to work and other areas of life, motivating you to take on challenges you may have previously avoided. Essentially, the process of learning a language not only leads to proficiency but also personal growth. This creates a positive feedback loop where increased confidence results in even greater language skills, which, in turn, fosters more confidence.

How English improves lives

We have discussed some examples of how English can assist you in your daily life. However, do not just take our word for it:

“English literally saved my life many times.When I was a student, I struggled with motivation. I didn’t like any subjects, didn’t do homework, and didn’t read books. But then my English tutor helped me fall in love with English. English became an escape for me and a chance to develop a new identity as a curious, passionate and capable learner.

99% of everything I read and learned happened in English.Later, when I came to the US, English helped me survive and move from low-paid, manual jobs to better-paid jobs that required effective communication: server, bartender, and English teacher.

To this day, English is the superpower that helps me work alongside my colleagues and world-class experts and make a difference.”

- Illya Gogin, Director of Product at ɫèAV

If you're a language learner, a student about to enter the job market, or simply interested in the power and benefits of learning a language, there are a world of resources available. The GSE is an amazing tool that can help you achieve your language goals, make sure to read more about how it can improve your English proficiency here: The Global Scale of English for learners.

Ready to start reaping the benefits of language learning? Read our report to uncover more enlightening statistics and details that could chart the course of your language learning adventure.

Learning a new language isn't just an educational challenge—it's a step toward a more vibrant, connected, and fulfilling life. Embark on this linguistic voyage and watch the world open up in ways you've never imagined.

More blogs from ɫèAV

  • teenage boy studying with headphones on and with a laptop

    Why should I learn English?

    By Steffanie Zazulak

    English is the second most widely spoken language – it is estimated that nearly two billion people worldwide can speak English at a useful level. That means they can hold a conversation with other English-speaking people.

    A report by the attests the importance of the English language to the world, and says thatsecond-language English speakers far outnumber fluent English speakers. It also recognizes how being able to speak English can give individuals a competitive edge over others. If you're asking the question, "Why should I learn English?", read on to find out more...

  • A boy wearing headphones smiling listening to music

    11 great English language song lyrics

    By Steffanie Zazulak

    What is it about music that helps boost your English skills, confidence and pronunciation? A song can provide an emotional connection between the music and the listener, providing learners with new ways to express their feelings. Music and rhythm have also been shown to benefit memorization, which is a key component of learning.

    Here are some of our favorite lyrics to some of our favorite songs:

    1. The Beatles – Blackbird

    The Beatles are the best band to help you learn English. There are many Beatles songs with catchy melodies and simple lyrics, but Blackbird captures the Fab Four at their most poetic:

    Blackbird singing in the dead of night
    Take these broken wings and learn to fly
    All your life
    You were only waiting for this moment to arise

    2. The Cure – Friday I’m In Love

    This song is a great way to help learn the days of the week (that may be obvious). Love is also a very popular English word, so this one is for all the romantics out there.

    Always take a big bite
    It’s such a gorgeous sight
    To see you eat in the middle of the night

    3. Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud

    Another one for the lovers, Ed’s heartfelt lyrics are huge in the mainstream pop charts. Here, he tells the sweet story of long-time love in this ballad and he’s becoming one of the world’s most sought-after songwriters.

    Take me into your loving arms
    Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
    Place your head on my beating heart

    4. The Smiths – How Soon Is Now?

    This classic from Morrissey and co was voted runner-up in VH1’s Top Lyrics poll, for the lyrics: So you go and you stand on your own, and you leave on your own, and you go home and you cry and you want to die’ but it’s the opening lines of the song that are the most intriguing. Firstly, they’re adapted from George Eliot’s novel Middlemarch and include some rather clever double meanings – namely ‘son’ (sun) and ‘heir’ (air).

    I am the son
    And the heir
    Of a shyness that is criminally vulgar

    5. Neil Young – Heart of Gold

    This was Neil Young’s only number-one hit single from 1972’s Harvest album. He uses simple lyrics and melodies to tell his story of searching for true love.

    I’ve been in my mind
    It’s such a fine line
    That keeps me searchin’ for a heart of gold
    And I’m gettin’ old

    6. U2 – City of Blinding Lights

    U2 is the second-best band to help you learn English and frontman Bono is the second-best male artist to help you learn (edged out by Justin Timberlake). The chorus was inspired by a moment during a performance in New York City, when Bono saw the audience lit up and shouted, “Oh, you look so beautiful tonight!”

    And I miss you when you’re not around
    I’m getting ready to leave the ground
    Oh you look so beautiful tonight
    In the city of blinding lights

    7. The Police – Every Breath You Take

    These lyrics are a good use of repetition and rhyme, which is excellent for helping memorization. Most people consider this a love song, but that’s a common mistake. In 1983, Sting was interviewed for New Musical Express and explained: “I think it’s a nasty little song, really rather evil. It’s about jealousy and surveillance and ownership.”

    Every move you make and every vow you break
    Every smile you fake, every claim you stake, I’ll be watching you
    Every move you make, every step you take, I’ll be watching you

    8. Bob Dylan – Mr Tambourine Man

    Dylan’s whimsical, poetic lyrics might be difficult for an English language learner to interpret, but that doesn’t mean they’re not a pleasure to listen and sing along to.

    Hey! Mr Tambourine Man, play a song for me
    I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
    Hey! Mr Tambourine Man, play a song for me
    In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come followin’ you

    9. Madness – Our House

    This song takes you through the daily goings-on in a typical household in the 80s. This song has been around for a while now but is a story that most people can still connect with. This is an excellent song for understanding the concept of nostalgia!

    I remember way back then when
    everything was true and when
    we would have such a very good time
    such a fine time

    10. Otis Reading – (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay

    Sadly, Otis Redding lost his life in a plane crash shortly after this song was recorded, and it was released after his death. His lyrics are quite reflective, provoking both contentment and sadness. You can really imagine yourself sitting on the dock with his simple yet descriptive words.

    Sittin’ in the morning sun
    I’ll be sittin’ when the evening comes
    Watching the ships roll in
    Then I watch them roll away again

    11. Leonard Cohen – Everybody Knows

    No list of standout turns of phrase would be complete without Leonard Cohen, a man whose songwriting process is so painstaking he’ll often spend years on the same song. When quizzed on his process, Cohen once said it often took so long because, “After a while, if you stick with the song long enough it will yield.” It’s interesting to note then that, even for a master of the English language, the words don’t always come easily. Everybody Knows remains a firm favorite among fans, with the majority of lines starting with the words ‘Everybody knows…’ It’s a lengthy song, but for the sheer beauty of its words and phrasing, the opening lines are a highlight:

    Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
    Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
    Everybody knows that the war is over
    Everybody knows that the good guys lost

  • A couple laughing together while having drinks

    10 English words and slang terms you should know

    By Steffanie Zazulak

    Not everything can be taught in the classroom – that’s why we’ve put together a list of 10 English words, slang terms and figures of speech for you to sprinkle into your English conversations. Not sure how to use them? Don’t worry, we’ve included definitions and examples of how to use them in a sentence.

    Earworm

    A song or tune that, once you’ve heard it, is stuck in your head.

    Use it: “That new Taylor Swift song is such an earworm!”

    Staycation

    Spending your holiday in your hometown rather than traveling abroad. Often spent relaxing around the house or doing activities in the local area.

    Use it: “I’m having a staycation this summer, as I’m trying to save money.”

    Webisode

    An episode or series created exclusively for online viewing. This can be part of a web series or used to promote a television series.

    Use it: “There’s a new Breaking Bad webisode online, have you seen it?”

    Crowdfunding

    Funding a project or business venture by asking a large number of people (typically online) to invest a small amount of money – usually via websites such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo.

    Use it: “We raised enough money to launch our business using crowdfunding.”

    Glamping

    Glamorous camping! Avoiding any rough conditions with luxurious facilities and accommodation, such as a yurt or cabin.

    Use it: “We’re going to be glamping at Glastonbury this year.”

    Lookalike

    Something or someone that closely resembles something else, often used to describe someone who looks very similar to a celebrity.

    Use it: “Have you seen the Prince William and Kate Middleton lookalikes over there?”

    Handover

    This word has a more political significance, in terms of gaining land or ownership. However, its modern usage is commonly in the workplace: The act of passing over control or responsibility to another person while you are off work on holiday or leaving a job.

    Use it: “I’ll send my notes in a handover email so you can continue the project while I’m away.”

    Meh

    When something is a little uninspiring or dull. Also a word you could use to describe your lack of interest or indifference. It’s basically a verbal shrug.

    Use it: “The film was a bit meh.”

    Binge-watch

    Watching multiple episodes of a TV show, one after another, in a single sitting. Usually, with a DVD box set or using online streaming.

    Use it: “I’m planning to binge-watch the entire series of Game of Thrones this weekend!”

    Spill the tea

    When someone 'spills the tea' they are telling you all the latest news or gossip.

    Use it: “Please spill the tea about last week's party!"