10 Essential Rules For Smart Language Learning

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Dedicated to my mom, dad and grandmother,

who taught me the value of curiosity.
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LUCA LAMPARIELLO
10 Essential
Rules for
Smart
Language Learning
How to Pave Your Path to Fluency
in Any Language
Copyright © 2023 Smart Language Learning Academy. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever

without prior written permission from Smart Language Learning Academy, except
in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews or articles.
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Table of Contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Rule 1: Start with Why ..................................................................................................................................... 12
Rule 2: Set Smart Learning Goals ......................................................................................................... 22
Rule 3: Create Strong Daily Habits ..................................................................................................... 34
Rule 4: Build Your Learning Input Machine.................................................................................... 48
Rule 5: Let Your Principles Guide Your Learning.......................................................................... 57
Rule 6: Make Input Your Top Priority................................................................................................... 69
Rule 7: Build Your Smart Grammar Machine................................................................................ 80
Rule 8: Build Your Listening Comprehension Machine......................................................... 92
Rule 9: Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!.................................................................................................. 106
Rule 10: Embrace Change, Start a Revolution.............................................................................. 118
Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................................... 132
Acknowledgements..................................................................................................................................... 134
About the Author............................................................................................................................................ 137
About the Smart Language Learning Academy...................................................................... 138
Bibliography....................................................................................................................................................... 138
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Introduction
“The world we have created is a product of our thinking.
It cannot change without changing our thinking.”
- Albert Einstein
Are you a bad language learner? If so, welcome to the club. So was I, and so are
most learners on the planet who have tried to learn languages “the traditional way.”
Think about the problems you have faced, are facing or will face as a language
learner:
• You’ve purchased a lot of resources and can’t choose which one to learn with.
• You’re trying to learn massive amounts of vocabulary, but the words just won’t
stick.
• You do endless grammar drills and exercises but you seem to take years to
conjugate verbs in your head.
• You are horrified by the idea of speaking with native speakers unless they slow
down… a lot.
• You feel self-conscious about your grammar, speaking and basically, the whole
process!
• And so on, and so forth.
Yup, been there and done that.
But here is the thing.
You struggle with the most basic aspects of language learning, because you have
never been shown how to do it correctly.
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How to do it… the smart way.
After more than three decades of learning languages and coaching hundreds of
students from all over the world, I have come to three very important conclusions.
1. Learning a language is achievable by anyone.
2. Most people make it more complicated than it needs to be.
3. Success hinges on your mindset.
In fact, most language learners’ struggles have very little to do with the reasons
they think.
Here are some common things I hear all the time:
• I am not smart.
• I don’t have the talent to learn languages.
• I am too old.
• I have tried it before and I could not learn, I am helpless.
• My memory sucks!
• I don’t have time to practice.
• I easily lose focus when studying.
No matter how strongly you believe these excuses to be true, they are lies your mind
tells you, and they are lies you are happy to believe.
Why?
Because they let you off the hook.
Here’s the deal: to successfully learn a language, you have to challenge yourself,
your beliefs, and you have to leave your comfort zone.
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You can approach language learning differently by trying out new methods,
experimenting along the way, and making it a habit of passion. Allowing you to apply
it consistently, seeing progress over time.
This is what this book is about.
Before we explore the fascinating world of 10 Essential Rules for Smart Language
Learning, let me reveal something about myself that may surprise you.
How I Went from a Language Failure to a Language Master

My name is Luca Lampariello.
By all accounts, I’m just a normal Italian guy.
However, when people ask me what “superpower I have,” without hesitation I reply
with “I speak a bunch of languages.”
Come to think of it, though, that’s not really a superpower.
You might find this arrogant or boastful, and hard to believe, but I think that speaking
a lot of languages is not the feature of a genius.
Far from it.
Anybody can do it, provided they have the right mindset, skills and the self
-organization to manage their time and energy accordingly.
How do I know?
Most consider me a superhero when it comes to languages, but you’d be surprised

to find out I was actually a… superzero. Far from a master, I was a complete disaster.
When I was growing up in Italy, it was customary to begin learning foreign languages
by the time you attended “scuola media” aka middle school.
When it was my turn to join the party, I started learning English and French.
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After two years, I was abysmal at both, particularly at English.
My pronunciation was so bad that even my private tutor, Susan, whom my parents
had hired to work with me at home, struggled to understand the words coming out
of my mouth.
Regardless, I thought I was useless, and that learning a foreign language would be
futile… at least in my lifetime.
And that’s when my language learning journey was flipped upside down. Or right
side up, depending on how you look at it.
Susan sparked a sense of capability I had never experienced prior to working with
her. Using what she taught me and teaching myself along the way, I’ve managed
to learn 14 languages.
I never set out to become a polyglot. My path was meant to be in engineering,

but one thing led to another, and this language thing just kind of snowballed into
a monster… but a nice and friendly monster that made my life all the better.
And that’s when it hit me that anyone can learn a language as well - including you!
And if you want, you can even become a polyglot! Of course, you don’t have to, but
it’s within much closer reach than you can imagine.
In fact, the reason why you might have failed learning a language has nothing to
do with you.
It might sound incredible, but general language instruction is usually flawed, ineffective,
and discouraging.
Again, it’s their problem, not yours.
In fact, traditional language learning methods mostly focus on acquiring knowledge,

such as grammar rules and vocabulary, and then expecting the student to apply it.
On the other hand, efficient language learning involves a crucial element of action.
It’s not just about what you know in terms of language knowledge, but rather what
you’re capable of doing with that knowledge using your language.
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Effective learning is not about absorbing new information - new words and grammar
rules.
It is about learning how to read, listen, speak and write.
You don’t need more instructions and explanations.
You need principles and practice. Lots of practice!
That’s my modus operandi and it’s also what this book is about.
My passion lies in educating, enabling, and empowering your desire to learn

a foreign language - whichever one (or ones) it may be.
Every learner I have coached or helped discover their learning potential has brought
me immense joy, and to this day, I am forever grateful that I can call this my “job.”
What to Expect From this Book

This book is meant for any language learner looking to transform his or her language
learning process. To make it more efficient, more effective, and more fun than ever
before.
This transformation will come through applying a series of 10 simple rules, which
I’ve learned and practiced over three decades of language learning and coaching.
In this time, I’ve shared these rules with hundreds of struggling language learners,
who then put them to use in order to reach levels of language learning success that
they never could have imagined.
The ten rules you will learn about in this guide are as follows:
1. Start With Why
2. Set Smart Learning Goals
3. Create Strong Daily Habits
4. Build Your Learning Input Machine
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5. Let Your Principles Guide Your Learning
6. Make Input Your Top Priority
7. Build Your Smart Grammar Machine
8. Build Your Listening Comprehension Machine
9. Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!
10. Embrace Change. Start a Revolution!
Let’s get one thing straight before we dive headfirst into this: the rules I am about to
share with you can work wonders for anyone trying to learn any language, no matter
where you’re at in the process.
This may sound like hyperbole, but it’s far from it. The rules in this book are based on
the very science of learning, and the content applies to all languages, from Spanish
to Japanese and beyond. By mastering these rules, you’ll unlock the power to learn
any language, and that’s a skill that will serve you for a lifetime!
These rules are backed by over 30 years of experience in learning, experimentation,

and teaching people from all walks of life, worldwide.
This book is for you. It’s your golden ticket to mastering any language your heart
desires.
But remember: the key is to take action and apply what you learn. Embrace change
and start a revolution.
A language learning revolution.
Let’s delve into it!
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Wrap-up
Many people have difficulty learning languages because they use an ineffective
traditional method.
Anyone can learn a language with the right mindset and organization.
The distinction between knowledge and skills is fundamental to effective

language learning.
In this book, you will learn 10 rules to make your language learning process more
efficient, effective, and fun.
The 10 rules are:
1. Start With Why
2. Set Smart Learning Goals
3. Create Strong Daily Habits
4. Build Your Learning Input Machine
5. Let Your Principles Guide Your Learning
6. Make Input your Top Priority
7. Build Your Smart Grammar Machine
8. Build Your Listening Comprehension Machine
9. Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!
10. Embrace Change. Start a Revolution!
These rules can be applied to any language at any level.
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CHAPTER 1
Start with Why

“If you know the why, you can live any how.”
— Friedrich Nietzsche
?
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It was September 2011.
I was getting ready to start learning a brand new language, as I usually do during
that time of year. I had a few languages that I could have chosen, but I eventually
settled on Romanian.
I chose Romanian mostly because it seemed like it would be easy. Romanian is

a Romance language, just like my native Italian, so there would be lots of similar-
ities that I would easily grasp. On top of that, a lot of Romanian words come from
the neighboring Slavic languages; since by then I already spoke a few romance
languages and one Slavic language (Russian), I was also expecting to pick up these
terms quickly, with little effort.
“Piece of cake,” I thought.
Piece of… difficult cake - it turned out to be.
Romanian grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary did indeed turn out to be

relatively easy to learn.
The difficult part was learning Romanian itself.
The truth I was blind to at the time, beyond an overarching belief that the whole
process would be easy, was that I had little else compelling me to learn Romanian
at all—no Romanian friends, no knowledge of Romanian culture, and no plans to
even visit Romania.
Needless to say, my interest in the language did not last long. In fact, I didn’t even
last three months before I stopped learning Romanian altogether. Having cultivated
no ties to Romania, its people, or its culture, I found that I had no reason to learn
Romanian other than to add another language to my repertoire.
Alas, Romanian turned out to be a story of complete and utter language failure.
But now, let me tell you a story of language success.
In particular, of my success learning German.
Oh, hallo, mein lieber Freund!
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In September 1996, when I was fifteen years old, I decided that I wanted to begin
learning German. I had had some success learning English and French by then, so
I didn’t think it would be too much of a challenge. What made my attempt unusual,
however, was that I was going to be learning German all by myself, and not in a
classroom, as I had with my previous two foreign languages.
For a high-schooler in pre-Internet Europe, I had set before myself a monumental

task; indeed, I had never met anyone who had learned a language on their own
before, so it wasn’t immediately obvious that such a thing was even possible. That
didn’t deter me, though, because I had something incredibly strong spurring me
on, and pulling me forward, toward success.
That something was my vision.
I’m not quite sure where it came from, but whenever I sat down to learn German,
I remember being overwhelmed by a powerful vision of what my future would look
like if I successfully learned the language.
Here is what I envisioned in my mind, day in and day out.
I am at the beach, in the middle of the summer. Surrounded by my peers. They

are all German. There are 10 of us. I am the only Italian. The sun is up in the sky but
there is a light breeze, so the heat is bearable, almost pleasant. We are listening
to “Zehn kleine Jägermeister” by the German group die Toten Hosen from a small
radio that one of the guys brought, sipping Paulaner, and we are all screaming the
lyrics at the top of our lungs. “Mann, dieser Song ist der Hammer” (“Man, this song
is the bomb”) I say out loud. “Na ja” - replies one girl sitting right next to me, with
a big smile on her face. We keep listening to music, cracking jokes, laughing. I am
having a great time. I can’t believe it! I am speaking German. Like, speaking it for
real, with native Germans, in flesh and blood. Sure, I am messing up a few words
here and there, but the spirit of the moment and being in unison with my friends
elates me beyond words. I feel more alive than ever.
It might sound corny, but that mental image was really compelling for me! So much
so, in fact, that it compelled me to keep learning German for nearly two years before
I even got a real chance to use it with another person. And believe it or not, my first
chance to use my German actively was when miraculously, my vision somehow
became a reality.
In July 1998, my parents had decided to send me and my twin sister to a summer
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camp in Sardinia, which is a major island off of the west coast of Italy. I hadn’t
expected to do much of anything exciting there, but I remember being shocked
and delighted to find that the summer camp was currently being visited by
hundreds upon hundreds of German tourists.
This was my chance to finally put my German skills to the test. And oh boy did
I do it! Not only did I take a chance to speak with native German speakers. I made
lasting memories by making life-long friends and I even met, at that time, the love
of my life. It wouldn’t be the last time that learning a language led to spontaneous
relationships, strong friendships, and amazing adventures, but these are stories for
another time.
A love letter from Katarina, the German girl that claimed my heart in the summer of 1996
Here, in fact, I want to emphasize one big lesson that I have learned.
The difference between my experience learning German and my experience learning
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Romanian had nothing to do with time.
It did not have to do with experience.
Or even the language itself.
It was simply the presence, or absence, of a deep connection with the language,
and the culture it comes from.
The simple truth is that whether you start learning a language from scratch
or you’ve been learning it for some time, your “WHY” will make all the difference.
Yes, it all starts with one simple question: “Why?”
Why do you want to learn your target language?
It’s an oversimplification, but a very important one to consider when beginning your
own language learning journey.
Regardless of where you find yourself on the path to fluency, it is of the utmost
importance that you know and understand why you are learning your target
language.
This is because, despite what many might want to believe, language learning is not
a three-week or three-month race to fluency. It’s a marriage. It’s a marathon. It is
a lifelong commitment.
There will be lots of highs, lows, and everything in between. At times, you’ll feel on
top of the world, like you could do this forever. And other times, you’ll ask yourself
why you ever started in the first place.
Knowing your why is useful throughout all phases of your journey, but it is absolutely
critical during these low periods, which are part of what is called “the motivation
dip.” When all else fails and you feel as if you’ve hit rock bottom with your language
learning, your why will either succumb to the negative self-talk or cue the Rocky
theme and get you back on your feet.
If you’re reading this, then I’m certain that you dream of one day reaching fluency
in your target language. To do that, you absolutely must prepare yourself for the
motivation dip. It’s not a matter of “if” it’s coming, but rather “when” it’s coming.
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However, knowing your why is only half of the battle. You must also flesh it out—by
making it stronger, clearer and more robust over time.
To identify and strengthen your why, you need to build a deep, emotional connection
with your target language. After all, this is a lifelong partnership we’re talking about,
right?
Then, once you’ve developed that connection, you need to protect, maintain, and
nurture it.
Here’s a quick exercise that can assist you in achieving this goal.
First, read the instructions, and then use your writing to manifest your vision into
reality.
• 3Start by finding a quiet place where you can sit and think, unbothered by anyone or
3anything. Before sitting down, make sure you have a pen and paper with you,
3so you can write things down as you think of them. Your task here will be to
3create a compelling vision of life in your target language, as I did when learning
3German as a teenager.
•33Close your eyes, and take a few long, deep breaths. Focus on keeping your exhales as
3 3long and slow as possible.
• Once you’re calm and ready, ask yourself the following questions:
How do I want to use my target language in the future?
Who will I use the language with?
When and where will I use it?
How am I going to feel when using it?
• Try to spend about 15 to 30 minutes fleshing out your vision, and making it as detailed
as possible. Then, when you feel you’re ready, open your eyes, grab your pen and
paper and write everything down, just as you imagined it.
As you answer each question, you’ll likely begin to notice an image beginning to
form in your mind’s eye. You won’t just think of what you want to do with your target
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language. You will see yourself actually doing it. You won’t just name the person or
people you’re speaking with, you’ll see their faces and hear their voices. You will feel
emotions. You will feel a connection. That’s the sign that you’ve built a bond.
If your vision isn’t clear or it waivers, then you’re not ready yet. Don’t force it. Take
another deep breath and try to focus. Keep trying until you’ve got a crystal clear visual
established.
Use each of the questions above as a way to make your mental image more vibrant
and more vivid. Try to engage all five senses, and do what you can to really believe
you’re there, sometime down the road, using your target language. You may even
use music to help set the mood and get your creative juices flowing, and in this re-
gard, you could even listen to music that originates from the culture of your target
language!
By creating your language learning vision, you’ve just given yourself a lifeline
— something that will save and sustain you when language learning inevitably gets
burdensome. This is an invaluable tool that you should keep with you whenever you
sit down to learn, and even revise, and improve upon over time. This is the first,
powerful rule for your smart language learning strategy.
This vision exercise is something I do with all my students. Many of them even go
beyond the steps I’ve recommended here and decorate their written visions, mak-
ing it into something not only emotionally, but also visually compelling. Anything
colorful, visual and meaningful will do. I, for example, love printing a small flag of my
target language and attach it on top of the piece of paper where I wrote my vision.
Words are immensely powerful, but the same can be said for images!!
Here is an example.
The vision of Aleks, a student at the Smart Language Learning Academy learning
Spanish.
Mi esposa (the wifey) and I are on a paddle boat, carelessly floating on the small
lake in the Parque del Buen Retiro deep in the heart of Madrid. I’m wearing an outfit
inspired by the likes of, none other than, Antonio Banderas and his mariachi
outfit from Desperado, Maybe, I’m even using one of Antonio’s colognes, and my
wife and I are playfully shouting in Spanish at our good friends, a couple from
Fuenlabrada.
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Aleks’s Spanish Vision
Oye ¿qué estáis haciendo?
However, I’m still not quite used to the vosotros form of verbs coming from them
as I learned Latin American Spanish. Regardless, the mood is only enhanced and
enchanted by the strumming and singing of a few local buskers. They’re
casually playing an acoustic version of “La Cucaracha” by El Combo Dominicano.
A mí me gusta el flow
De la cucaracha
Cuando le hecha flis
Hace así y se emborracha.
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I think to myself “qué guay” and plant “un beso grande” (a big ol’ kiss) on my wife.
The romantic moment is broken up by a splash of water from our friends nearby.
We all laugh it off and decide to go grab a bite near the Plaza Mayor. ¡Que genial!
Your target language deserves a vision just as much as you deserve a fighting
chance when you hit a motivational roadblock on your path to fluency.
Don’t wait, get started right away! Find a quiet place, grab a pen and paper, and
ask yourself the questions provided. Your future self will thank you for it.
Excited to get started on your vision? Great, but that won’t be enough. Don’t make
the same mistake I did when learning Greek in 2017.
You could say my vision had a few blindspots that I wasn’t anticipating. I learned
a sobering lesson through my trials and tribulations with Greek - a key ingredient
was missing!
A vision will provide you with an ideal outcome, but you need a path to that place…
a step-by-step guide on how to reach your final destination.
And what could that be? That’s what you’re going to learn in the next chapter!
Not only will you find out that next step, but you’ll see how one of my biggest
language learning disappointments transformed my Greek from a year-long
catastrophe to an unbelievable three month turnaround.
An exciting and challenging adventure is about to begin for you.
Ready to embark upon it?
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Wrap-up
Motivation is the key to successful language learning.
Language learning is not a three-week or three-month race to fluency,

but a lifelong commitment.
It is important to have a definitive and clear "why," because it’ll make the
difference during the difficult stretches in your path to fluency.
To increase motivation, it is important to develop a strong emotional

connection to the target language and culture.
You can develop this connection by visualizing how you will use the
language in the future, with whom and where, and how it will feel.
Creating a detailed vision of life in your target language can be an excellent

source of motivation and support during the learning process.
Your language vision is the first of many smart language learning methods
discussed in later chapters of this book.
ACTION STEP 1
Create a vision of what your life will be like once you’re able to speak
and use your target language well. Once you’ve developed your
vision, write it down, and keep the written copy near you whenever
you sit down to learn.
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CHAPTER 2
Set Smart Learning Goals

Setting goals is the first step in turning
the invisible into the visible.
— Tony Robbins
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December 28, 2017, early in the morning.
I still remember how excited I was.
I was about to write my first year-long plan. No computer, no cellphone, no digital

distractions.
It had to be paper-based and handwritten, that’s how I functioned (and still function!)
the best. In terms of crafting your plans and making goals, it’s like magic!
The end of the year, typically the last days of December, is always the ideal time for
me to reflect about what happened during the past year and plan for the following
one, be it nutrition, exercise or languages.
But that fateful day at the end of 2017 was a stark contrast from previous years.
Usually, I jotted down a few lines on a piece of paper, sharing a handful of thoughts
and reflections regarding the previous 12 months. Nothing fancy or complicated.
The act of sitting and writing in complete silence made me feel good but the truth
is, it wasn’t effective in and of itself.
At the end of 2017, I decided to take the whole thing more seriously.
I spent an entire hour, pen and paper in hand, writing in complete silence. I was
determined to craft the ultimate annual language learning plan.
Greek was my language of choice.
I had been learning this beautiful language for a few months, since September 2017
to be exact.
I turned to my time-tested beginner’s resource of ASSIMIL Greek with Ease and

I meticulously applied my Bidirectional Translation Technique to it.
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The “scribbles of success” in my copy of ASSIMIL Greek with Ease in the fall of 2017
Things were going well, so I was eager about stepping up my game.
The entire 2018 plan for Greek, in the end, boiled down to two main goals.
This is what I wrote at the time:
“By the end of 2018, I want to be able to understand podcasts created for language
learners.”
“By the end of 2018, I want to be able to have conversational fluency in Greek.”
It looked like a feasible plan. Come to think of it, one year is a long time. “If I work at
it every day, I will surely achieve both goals,” I thought to myself.
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Then 2018 went by, and it was time to reflect on how my plan had panned out.
I sat down again, and I looked at my journal, where I had meticulously kept track of
my daily learning. Well, I was shocked and dismayed to discover that none of the
goals I had set for myself had come true.
Actually, it was even worse than that.
The sobering truth I hated admitting to myself was that I could barely understand
beginner dialogues and I was still very, very far from conversational fluency.
In other words, I had made very little progress in One. Entire. Year.
So I mustered up the courage and I perused through my journal notes, seeking the
source of my failures. I quickly realized I had basically stopped learning Greek for
7 months in a row! Nearly 60% of the year was wasted.
Yep. You could say 2018 was not a good year for Greek.
Actually, it was not a good year in general for me tout court, which, of course,
impacted my Greek.
But looking at the annual plan I had crafted 12 months earlier and the actual,
disastrous results, I learned a few lessons that have changed the course of my life
and my language learning career immeasurably.
I am going to share them with you right now so read carefully (or listen, or read and
listen if you are using the audiobook).
Despite the painful sense of disillusionment, I managed to draw some key lessons
from my year gone awry.
To do that, I revisited the original goals I had set for myself:
1. “By the end of 2018, I want to be able to understand podcasts created for
language learners.”
2. “By the end of 2018, I want to be able to have conversational fluency in Greek.”
These seemed to be normal language learning goals.
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But upon closer inspection, I realized the big mistake I had made.
These goals made me feel vaguely good and hopeful about my Greek, but they did
nothing for me in terms of actually sitting down and learning.
My goals were what I now call outcome goals.
An “outcome goal,” as the name implies, is tied to a specific outcome.
In my specific case, the two goals were tied to being able to understand podcasts
and being able to hold a conversation in Greek.
In the introductory chapter of this book, we stated that prioritizing performance and
focusing on improving language skills is an ideal approach to language learning.
In this case, a more effective type of goal is precisely what I call performance goals.
Performance goals are related to your everyday activities.
They force you to ask yourself a critical question:
“What do I need to do on a daily basis to achieve my goal?”
In the case of understanding beginner podcasts, the answer was immediately

obvious to me: listen to beginner podcasts!
To improve my conversational fluency, the realization that dawned on me was to

spend a few minutes each day speaking to myself. In fact, I hadn’t hired a tutor yet,
and speaking to myself was something I could do in solitude without feeling any
pressure.
Moving from a goal tied to an outcome or a specific skill to one that is focused on
performing a daily activity might be a small difference in wording, but it makes
a HUGE difference in your language learning progress.
Do you see how formulating your goals can play a major role in your development?
Performance goals are about habits.
They are about daily actions.
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They focus on systems, not goals.
However, there is still a critical lesson I learned between 2017-2018.
Do you want to know what that crucial lesson was?
Here it is!
Throw away your annual plan.
Yes, you read that correctly.
The number one reason why language learners are unable to reach their full potential
is not due to a lack of intelligence, knowledge, or resources. It’s not about working
hard, having innate talent, or even luck.
Knowledge becomes powerful only once it’s put into action.
If you’re able to effectively execute your language learning plan, you’ll be able to
achieve success.
Sounds simple, but it is not as easy to put into practice.
Many language learners are excellent at setting goals and having aspirations, but
fail at consistently executing their learning efforts.
How often have you committed to learning a language day in and day out for an
entire year?
This is where a Smart 3-month Plan can take your results from ordinary to
extraordinary.
With a 3-month plan every 3 months, you eventually have a plan for a whole year.
But the difference between a 3-month plan and an annual plan is huge: the further
out you plan, the less predictability you have.
Long-term planning piles assumptions on top of earlier assumptions. The bottom line
is that it is very difficult to determine what your daily actions should be 12 months
from now.
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That’s exactly what happened to me in 2018.
Lots of things happened that year, and many of them were unpleasant. Not only
that, but my priorities, circumstances and motivation all changed.
A 3-month plan is more predictable, more focused, and built around performance
goals.
The whole point of planning should be to help you identify and implement the critical
few actions you need to take to reach your goal.
In essence, the key takeaway is to invest 3 months in mastering a few skills rather
than spreading yourself too thin and being average across every skill level.
If you agree with this approach, there is one critical component that you should not
overlook - the SMART goal framework.
The SMART Goal Framework

Crafting a vision and coming up with a plan that stretches over 3 months is a great
start.
However, as useful as this plan is, it still doesn’t contain the daily habits and
performance tasks required to sing cool German songs on Italian beaches. Sorry,
that was my vision from the last chapter, but you get the point.
In fact, if we consider your current skill level as the starting point of your journey and
your vision as the destination, goals represent the stepping stones between where
you are and where you want to be. By setting goals, and specifically SMART goals,
you’ll be able to keep steadily progressing towards your vision, and even make
corrections whenever you might go off track.
So what are these SMART goals?
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SMART goals are:
• Specific – they target a specific area that you would like to improve
• Measurable – progress towards the goal can be quantified
• Achievable – you should be able to reasonably complete the goal
• Relevant – the goal should be well-aligned with your needs and desires
• Time-related – you should know when to expect to complete the goal
Let’s dive right in!
Specific
To keep it simple, start by asking yourself this question:
What do I want to do with my target language?
You may have noticed that this was the very first question I gave you to use for creating
your vision. I did this for good reason—if you know how you want to use your target
language in the future, then you’ve essentially identified a specific skill (or skills) you
need to develop in order to get there.
Here are a few more questions you can ask in order to determine how you might
want to use your target language:
1. Are you planning to move to the country where your target language is spoken?
2. Are you interested in reading target language books, magazines, and literature?
3. Are you looking to cultivate friendships with native speakers?
4. Are you interested in watching target language TV shows, or movies?
In my case, back in 2018, my two main goals for the first 3 months were:
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1. To listen to simple podcasts, and
2. To hold simple conversations.
Measurable
Let’s move on to M for measurable. How can we shape our goals so that they’re
easily tracked and measured?
This one’s a bit tricky. There’s a lot of different skills involved in language use, and
not all of them are easily quantifiable. How does one measure pronunciation, for
example?
Here, I find it’s better to take a looser approach, and simply base our goal on the
one thing pretty much everyone is used to measuring: time.
Here is an example of how to come up with a goal related to time.
When it came to listening to podcasts for Greek, I came up with the following goal:
• My goal is to listen to podcasts for at least 15 minutes a day.
• I’ll start with 3 minutes per day for one week, then move on to 5 the following
week, then 10 the third week and then 15 from week 4 onward.
As far as speaking, the same concept from the previous example applies here.
So this is what I wrote:
I want to speak to myself in Greek for 5 minutes a day. I will start by speaking to
myself 3 minutes a day for the first week. Then 4, then 5.
When breaking your vision down into measurable goals, remember to be creative.
Your vision likely didn’t come with clear indications of how to break it down into
measurable chunks, so if you need to, brainstorm a few options and try them all out,
until you find the one that makes the most sense.
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Relevant
Let’s skip A (Achievable) for a moment and go right on to R for Relevant. Thanks to
our vision exercise, you’ve already got this one in the bag. By its very nature, your
vision is something that is incredibly important to you, and very relevant to who
you are and who you want to be. I won’t get into the details here, but my Greek
vision was primarily about connecting with people, spending some time in Greece,
living and breathing the language. That’s why listening to podcasts and speaking
to myself were relevant goals. These skills were absolutely essential to using Greek
with native speakers.
Achievable and Time Related

And now for the remaining letters in SMART that we haven’t yet covered: Achievable
and Time-related. For our purposes here, I’d consider these criteria largely the
same, if only because I believe you should set your language learning goals every
three months.
A good three-month goal will be much like Goldilocks, not too overwhelming, not
selling yourself short, but just right!
And that’s also where achievability comes in. When you’re setting a SMART goal for
language learning, you want to keep your goals realistic. If your goal is too ambitious
(like reaching fluency in 90 days), you’ll likely feel internal pressure to scale it back to
something a little more grounded (such as having a basic conversation in 90 days).
In my case with Greek, the goals of spending at least 15 minutes listening to

podcasts and having 5 minutes a day talking to myself were realistic and feasible,
because they were focused on the habits of listening and speaking rather than
the final goal of understanding podcasts or speaking fluently. That made all the
difference and I did not feel any pressure!
Once you’ve made your new SMART goals, double-check and make sure you’ve
met each part of the criteria.
Freshly equipped with my 3-month Smart Plan and the Smart Goal Framework,
here is how I rewrote the goals for the first 3 months of 2018:
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• #1 - From January 1 to April 1, I will spend at the very least 15-20 minutes analyzing,
reading, and listening to the upper beginner and lower intermediate sections of
my Pod101 Greek resource.
• #2 - From January 1 to April 1, I will talk to myself in Greek for an average of 5

minutes a day.
Looks and feels a whole lot better than what I had previously, right? The difference
is I can apply these goals directly each and every day. No guesswork, no confusion
over resources, and most importantly, no paralysis from overanalysis.
Now it’s your turn to use the power of this knowledge by setting SMART goals for the
next three months.
I am excited for you.
Equipped with a meaningful, compelling vision and a clear three month plan crafted
through SMART goals, you are ready to take your language learning to the next
level.
But we haven’t finished yet.
You’re still missing one final piece to getting yourself optimized and organized for
consistent language learning. It’s a golden rule that will turn the idea of fluency
from a fantasy into a daily reality.
Oddly enough, I learned this golden rule by going to sleep with my running gear on.
Read the next chapter and you will see how all of these somewhat puzzling pieces
fit together to make you a smarter language learner.
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Wrap-up
It is more effective to focus on “performance goals” rather than “outcome
goals.”
Performance goals focus on daily actions and habits.
The main factor that prevents language learners from achieving their goals
is not lack of knowledge, but lack of action.
A better way to design goals is to make them SMART: Specific, Measurable,

Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.
A “Specific” goal addresses a particular area requiring improvement.
A “Measurable” goal allows you to quantify progress.
An “Achievable” goal is realistic and not overly ambitious.
A “Relevant” goal meets personal needs and preferences.
A “Time-bound” goal has a set completion date.
ACTION STEP 2
Using the 3-month Smart Language Learning plan and the SMART
Language Goal Framework, identify the language learning goal
(or goals) that you will aim to accomplish within the next three
months.
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CHAPTER 3
Create Strong Daily Habits

“We first make our habits, and then our habits make us”
- John Dryden
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It’s the spring of 2016. April, to be precise.
After a year-long hiatus from running, I was ready to start again.
I used to run quite frequently in my 20s, so I thought getting back into running would
be a relatively smooth process.
The flowers and trees were blooming in Rome, and I was excited to get back on
track and sprinting in Villa Pamphili, my favorite park in Rome.
Much like a well defined language vision, I had it all sorted out and pictured in my
mind.
Running at 6 AM, first thing in the morning every day - come rain or shine.
The first week went well. However, during week #2, my lofty plan fell apart prema-
turely.
My motivation had surprisingly run out of gas and I was stuck on ‘E’ (for empty). I woke
up, opened my eyes and then went back to sleep. I simply could not get myself to
run.
After a few weeks of confusion, I talked about this vexing lack of motivation with
Lieke, a Dutch girl who was living with me at the time.
We were discussing the matter over breakfast when all of a sudden she said:
“Why don’t you go to bed with your running gear on?”
The piece of cake I was about to put in my mouth never landed in its intended
destination.
I put it back on the dish for a moment.
The idea of me sleeping with my running gear on was slightly bewildering, but it
clicked with me instantaneously.
I did not know why but it seemed like an interesting suggestion. So, I gave it a try.
And guess what? It worked!
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You might be scratching your head thinking, “What does Luca’s running gear have
to do with learning languages?”
At first glance, probably nothing.
But upon closer inspection, there was more, much more than meets the eye.
In this chapter, I will explain how to overcome the eventual motivational dip we all
suffer. And yes, you’ll learn how to “wear your language learning gear” yourself and
become an unstoppable language learner.
Let’s get into it!
Your Smart Habit Framework

Here is a simple truth.
One that may seem trivial but is actually rather difficult to apply.
It is all about habits and learning how they work.
No matter if you want to start running, working out, playing chess or learning a new
language, you need to build good, sustainable habits.
The key word being sustainable.
You need to make any habit, but especially language learning, enjoyable and
sustainable.
Even more to the point, if you understand how to form good habits, you will become
an unstoppable language learner.
Here are six powerful principles that will help you create Your Smart Habit
Framework
Ready? Si comincia! (Let’s go!)
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Principle 1: Make It Easy to Start
I am fairly confident that you have already experienced the following scenario:
You start learning a new language, say, French. You do it for a few days. A few weeks,
even! Then something unexpected happens.
Your little daughter throws a temper tantrum and derails your morning routine.
You get sick.
Your husband’s car breaks down and so does your afternoon!
You skip a day.
Or you simply don’t get to do it - remember my failed morning attempts at running?
All of a sudden the habit becomes difficult to maintain. You skip a day. Then another
one. Until you eventually give up due to what you perceive as a “lack of motivation”
to keep going.
Sound familiar?
I am sure it does!
That is all the proof you need to verify that relying on “motivation” doesn’t work.
But now I want you think about another situation that, I am sure, you’ve already
experienced:
Most of the time, you find it difficult to sit down and learn, especially when you
need to be completely focused and engaged in the process, like when you’re “in
the zone.”
But sometimes you actually do get “in the zone.”
And when it happens, you quickly realize getting into that flow state is not as difficult
as you once thought.
You hit the books with great joy and realize that, “Hey, this is actually pretty awesome.
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I’m learning something.” Before you know it, it’s 1 PM and you have to stop, but only
because you’re late for lunch!
Then you think, “Wow, only 30 minutes ago I was completely demotivated, what
happened?”
Well, it’s simple - you started.
I’ll let you in on a little secret that seems counterintuitive. It is not motivation that
leads to action, but action that leads to motivation.
In Italy we say “L’appetito vien mangiando” - appetite comes by eating.
Remove the friction of starting and once you learn to “act,” to take action, everything
follows suit.
That’s what Lieke’s suggestion that fateful day back in 2016 was all about.
My failure with keeping the habit of running first thing in the morning was the result
of two mistakes:
1. I was ONLY relying on motivation, and
2. I was making it difficult for myself to start
To the second point, a lot of the friction stemmed from overthinking about the process
of getting ready to run. Undress, put my gear on, grab my running shoes, etc. That
takes time, and most of all, I was forced to make what feels like a plethora of small
decisions.
Once I started going to bed with my gear on, I jumped over that mental hurdle.
Put on my running shoes.
Drink a glass of high quality H2O.
Go running.
So, how do you apply this powerful principle to your language learning?
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Plain and simple: make starting your learning session ridiculously easy.
A few tips to make it happen:
1. Have a specific place where you learn every day
2. Prepare the language-learning material in advance
3. Know exactly which piece of content to consume and how to consume it
Having a dedicated space for daily learning is crucial. You can choose any place,
but I would start with a quiet place in your apartment, preferably with a desk.
To make it easier to start your language learning sessions, keep your materials
within easy reach, whether they’re physical or digital.
For physical materials, simply place them on your desk. For digital materials, save
them directly onto your desktop without worrying much about organizing every
single thing (folder not required, feel free to be a little bit messy!). If you primarily
use your phone, then just make sure you have whatever audio files you need on
there for some listening action.
As a beginner, when I got into the groove with Greek, I used to work on my desktop,
and I had my resources (either ASSIMIL or Pod101) already there. On top of that, I had
downloaded all the necessary audio files and stored them on my iPhone, ready to
be played with one click.
And on top of all that, I always knew exactly which chapter, podcast, or unit of
information to consume and how to consume it.
When I moved to the intermediate level, I already had a script of the podcast
I wanted to analyze along with the audio readily available on my phone.
When you start understanding spoken language better and better, even simply
clicking on the “play” button and listening to, say, a podcast while taking a walk in
the park is great.
Any meaningful activity spent with the language is “learning time.”
The easier it is to start doing it, the better.
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A globe, glass of water and Luca’s learning essentials when sitting down to study.
Principle 2: Anchor the New Habit to an Established Habit
One of the most interesting books I have ever read about habit formation is called
Tiny Habits by B.J. Fogg.
The core idea of Tiny Habits is to “anchor” the new habit to something you already
do on a daily basis.
He uses the following “formula” to create a habit.
“After I [your anchor], I will [new habit]”
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So, if you want to learn a sustainable habit of learning your target language on
a daily basis, attach the new habit to this behavior.
Think about all the automatic actions you take on a daily basis. Odds are, you will
discover pre-established routines.
Here is my established routine for the morning:
• After waking up, I make my bed
• After making my bed, I have breakfast
• After breakfast, I brush my teeth
• After I brush my teeth, I write my 30 minute journal
• After writing in my journal, I meditate for 10 minutes
Back in January 2022, when I started learning Serbian, I decided to “anchor” my

language learning habit to my 10 minute meditation session in the morning, following
the simple formula:
“After I finish my meditation, I will learn Serbian for at least 30 minutes.“
Needless to say, not only was I in zen mode, but I didn’t miss a day!
An important thing to note is that I am an “early bird.” I feel fresh and energetic at
the crack of dawn. That’s why I decided to implement my learning session in the
morning, embedding it into my routine.
As energized as I am in the morning, I am a wreck at night.
So, if I had established the following formula: “After I brush my teeth in the evening,
I will learn Serbian,” that would have turned into a disaster within a few days
- maybe even a few hours!
If you’re a night owl, the opposite would be true for you.
So, consider these two factors when you build your habits:
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1. Your energy level throughout the day
2. Your pre-established routine
Here are a few other examples and suggestions for you:
• After I sit down at my desk, I will start my learning session.
• After drinking a glass of water, I will sit down on my desk and learn.
• After I finish my run and take a shower, I will start my learning session.
Needless to say, this principle will also reduce the friction of getting started, which,
as you have seen, is a critical stumbling block in creating long-lasting habits.
Principle 3: Focus on One Habit at a Time
When you start building a new routine for yourself, you start building a new life.
You are excited, you want to change yourself and the world!
That’s great, but you run the risk of overdoing it, tackling too many things at once
and burning yourself out before you see any desired results.
A brief example of what to avoid:
I will start my new language learning routine by listening to a podcast a day, and
then a video in the afternoon, and I will read a magazine for half an hour before
bed!
That’s way too much at once.
Do this instead: focus on ONE habit at a time.
That habit should be about ONE piece of language learning material, ONE activity
and ONE learning session.
Start small.
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Start simple.
Start smooth.
When I first begin learning a language, I focus on one resource: normally ASSIMIL. I
do ONE activity (the Bidirectional technique) and I do it once a day (in the morning
for approximately an hour).
When I venture into the intermediate phase, I normally listen to ONE podcast, using
the “Smart Language Learning with Podcast” technique (I explain this in detail in
our course for intermediate learners) and I do it once, for around 45 minutes, in my
morning session.
It’s worth repeating:
One resource.
One activity.
One habit.
You have ample time to build upon this habit with time.
Principle 4: Take Baby Steps

The next principle is similar and complementary to the previous one. We have the
tendency of “doing too much.” We start a new habit and we want to do it for as long
as we can.
But here’s the thing: the only way to make a habit stick is to turn it into an automatic
behavior.
The key is to stay consistent. It’s important not to skip a day. Start with 5 or 10 minutes
and then gradually increase the duration over time.
Fogg even mentions in his book that if you want to start flossing regularly, start
with one tooth a day. Sounds ridiculous, but trust me, there’s a method to all of this
madness.
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I cannot stress this next sentence enough.
When you are forming new habits, consistency is much more important than inten-
sity.
That’s why there is no harm in starting for as little as 5, 10, or even 15 minutes. If you
know that you are going to be learning for a short period of time, you will feel less
resistance.
Be patient and the reward will come over time.
As your language level improves, you will be able to engage in your target language
for longer and with less effort.
This is what I did with Greek:
I started by listening to podcasts for 10-15 minutes a day and then progressively
I scaled up to 30 or even 45 minutes a day.
I started by talking to myself for 3 minutes a day and then I moved to 5, 10 and even
15 minutes a day.
Principle 5: Commit to the Habit for 30 Days

Some people say it takes 21 days to build a habit, others say 66 days. The truth is,
there is no one-size-fits all formula. The length of time varies. Some habits are easy
to build, and some take more effort.
I suggest that you commit to one single language learning habit for the next 30
days.
Think of it as a test drive of your new behavior. It’s much easier to commit to some-
thing for a month (especially at 5 minutes per day) than say 90 days or more.
And the best thing about committing to a 30-day challenge is that it builds your
confidence! You understand both the negative and the positive triggers, which
ultimately determine whether you complete a habit on a daily basis.
Enjoy the process and approach it as an experiment that you can learn from.
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I normally start on the first day of the new month, but it is up to you when to decide
to get started. Just give it a try. And then as you go through it, you can experiment
for one more month. And then another.
And then one day, you’ll wake up and see you’ve hit 90 days in a row and it’ll feel
different than before. Why? Well, because you did it “the smart way.”
Principle 6: Get Accountable, Go Public

In June 2021, I founded the Smart Language Learning Academy.
I had a burning desire to help people succeed in language learning and I am proud
of the courses and the community we have built.
Oftentimes when you give the best, you get the best and I must admit, I’ve actually
gotten so much back from the experience as well.
In fact, since early 2022, we have been running 3-month challenges across each of
the courses we have. In January 2022, I let the world know about my commitment
to learning Greek and Serbian as well.
In other words, I took accountability by… going public with my goals!
Hundreds of language learners were looking at me and my daily progress. And you
know what? It didn’t just keep me on my toes - it pushed me to my limits!
There were times I did not feel like learning Greek or Serbian. I know, I know, it happens
to me as well. We’re all human, aren’t we?
Other times I would get sick or something unexpected would pop up (remember all
of the stuff that can go wrong in one’s life?). And yet, I endured. Through thick and
thin, I managed to learn Greek and/or Serbian every single day. And to my pure
astonishment, a lot of the students stuck to their plan for 3 months as well.
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Really, never ever underestimate the power of social validation.
To conclude, the missing piece of the puzzle is creating a solid, realistic and sustainable
language learning plan. One that is based on daily performance goals over a three
month period, allowing you to adapt and review as you progress through the year.
Now, you have a vision. You have a 3 month plan with clear SMART goals. And as of
this chapter, you have transformed these goals into daily habits. You have created for
yourself the most important prerequisite for language learning success: Consistency.
You are (finally) ready to begin using language learning material to pave your way
to fluency.
In the next chapter, you will discover why language learning resources can be both
a blessing and a curse.
A former student of mine had his world flipped upside down when he discovered
that some resources carry far more burden than they do benefit.
Itching to find out why? Read on!
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Wrap-up
Building strong daily habits is crucial for language learning and any other
skill.
Making the habit easy to start (principle 1) is important. Prepare the material
in advance, have a specific place where you learn, and know which content
to consume and how to consume it.
Anchoring the new habit to an established habit (principle 2) makes it easier

to stick to it. For example, learning a language after a morning meditation
session.
Focusing on one habit at a time (principle 3), and taking baby steps
(principle 4) helps in forming new habits. Starting small and scaling
up over time is key.
Committing to the habit for at least 30 days (principle 5) helps in building

consistency and confidence.
Getting accountable and going public (principle 6) with your goals can
help in staying on track and pushing yourself to your limits.
ACTION STEP 3
Take your goals from Action Step 2, and break each of them down
into at least one daily habit, and commit to completing that habit
every day for the next 30 days. Remember, make your habit as easy
as possible to start. Always start small and then increase over time
- consistency over intensity.
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CHAPTER 4
Build Your Learning

Input Machine
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
— Leonardo da Vinci.
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In late 2015, the Luca of the past was still working as a one-on-one language coach,
holding private sessions for eager students.
Marco was an Italian manager in his 50s.
His target language was German.
Eine große Herausforderung - quite a challenge!
Determined to master Deutsch (German), Marco wanted to fit in and become a

part of the new German speaking community he had joined. For him, it wasn’t just
a hobby. It was a necessity for both his personal and professional life.
Much like most of my students, he had earnestly been learning German for a few
months, but he lacked clarity on how to proceed and make the most of his valuable
language learning time.
“So, which resource or resources are you using”? I asked him.
He made a gesture with his hand to wait a second and with a giant, German-learning
grin on his face, he hurried over to the corner of his room.
Head high and chest out, he dropped a large satchel of books on his desktop. Then
he began taking each one out, as if it were a precious jewel, expecting me to return
his jubilation.
However, I was slightly puzzled as Marco continued stacking each of the books on
his desk, one-by-one, until I could no longer see his face.
From behind the stack of books he uttered, “And I haven’t even talked about the list of
digital resources yet.”
At first glance, you might think, “Yes! Marco is super motivated. Go Marco!” And I admit,
I cracked a smile back at him, joining in his love for resources. After all, variety is
the spice of life. But hiding behind this “epic” showcase of resources was a rather
worrisome thought.
Marco had fallen victim to what I have dubbed “the next-shiny-language-learning-

tool syndrome.”
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You see, nowadays, most language learners have an absolutely incredible amount
of learning options available to them, right from the start. If you’re learning a pop-
ular language, you likely have a choice between dozens—if not hundreds—of apps,
textbooks, workbooks, online courses, in-person classes, and anything in-between.
This might seem like a good thing, but the truth is that having such a huge quantity
of choices can actually leave you totally overwhelmed.
Ever heard of decision fatigue? It’s why Steve Jobs wore a black turtleneck and blue
jeans, day in and day out. And it’s why you should stick to one resource at a time.
Most of us either fail to make a choice or we give ourselves too many choices to
make, to the point where we end up barely using any of the resources we’ve bought.
Marco was an example of the latter. What good is a stack of books if you’ve never
even opened one?
Or a collection of apps that you’ve subscribed to, but don’t have the time to use
consistently?
Sounds like a problem to me. And I am here to solve it!
How to Build your Smart Language Input Machine

Let me help you build your very own “Smart Language Input Machine.”
In order to build your “input machine,” you have to address two key questions:
Given your current level,
1. How many resources do you need?
2. Which resources do you need?
Take this advice to heart, especially if you’re a beginner, but also if you’re what I like
to call a “confused intermediate language learner,” then this rule of thumb applies
to you, too.
Surprised?
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Much like starting with ONE new habit, you should start with ONE new resource.
Trust me, this sounds counterintuitive, but it can work wonders for you.
Let me tell you about how I go about this.
When I start learning a foreign language, I always start with ONE single resource.
Normally - as you know by now - my favorite resource to start is ASSIMIL. If I can’t
find it for a specific language, I go for Pod101.
To give you a few recent examples, I used ASSIMIL for Hungarian (2015), as well as for
Greek (2017) and last but not least, Serbian (2022).
I normally apply the Bidirectional Translation to that one resource.
So every day I focus on ONE resource, using ONE technique and doing only ONE
activity.
Then, once I work on that one resource for about 3-4 months, I move to another one.
Consuming one resource at a time has a number of incredible benefits. First and
foremost, it keeps you from falling into the typical trap of buying resource after
resource in the hope of eventually finding “the best one” - and ending up like our
Italian manager (Sorry, Marco)!
Secondly, having a limited number of resources helps you stay focused and avoid
distractions. It’s not unusual for people to eagerly begin using a resource, only to
toss it aside once they run into a roadblock.
By limiting yourself to the most essential learning materials, you’ll make it harder to
quit when the going gets tough. The goal is to work through your roadblocks, hur-
dles and problems - not to avoid them altogether.
When I use ASSIMIL, I use the physical copy of the book in conjunction with the audio.
It never occurs to me to suddenly surf the internet in search of another “fancier”

resource. I simply get to apply the bidirectional translation to the material, and
make sure I do it every day. Once I’ve adapted myself to that system, I function like
a well-oiled learning machine.
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Always start with the fewest possible resources and over time, adapt and expand
as needed.
Remember: less is more!
The other key question is about the quality and types of resources you should be
using to learn from. While many newer language learners are drawn to the flash
and convenience of software programs and mobile apps, I’ve often found that
these make for a poor learning experience, and do not help people gain serious
proficiency in their target languages.
Pen and paper are a tried and tested approach. Especially, if you’re in it for the long
haul.
There are, however, still many products widely available that do lend themselves to
serious language learning, and they all tend to share a number of features.
Here is what I recommend for beginners. Find resources that have the following
features:
• They are printed books.
• They contain dialogues in your target language and with the equivalent translation
in your native language or a language you know well.
• The dialogues are accompanied by audio recordings, read by actual native

speakers.
• The dialogues are generally centered around specific, everyday topics.
• They feature authentic, colloquial language spoken at a normal conversational

speed.
• If they come with grammar explanations or exercises, they are only meant as
a supplement to the learning experience, and not the bulk of it.
Depending on your target language, it may or may not be easy to find resources
that have these features. From my own experience, however, I can say that the
following products are a good starting point:
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• Assimil’s “With Ease” series
• Teach Yourself’s “Complete” series
• Innovative Language’s “Pod101” or “Class101” courses
For intermediate learners - especially for “lower intermediate learners” I highly

recommend two types of resources:
• Podcasts
• Videos
Once I am done with “Assimil” or “Pod101”, the next resource is normally a series of
podcasts, and that is the ONE resource I use for a few months (before adding videos
to the mix).
When selecting podcasts, I suggest looking for the following characteristics:
• No longer than 15-30 minutes
• Clear, good quality, pleasant audio
• Comes with a script in your target language
• Possibly aimed at learners and not authentic material for natives
• Contains monologues or dialogues between two people
• Contains everyday, non technical language
• Contains interesting topics for you
Any podcast that has audio and a script in your target language, and any video
with subtitles in your target language is, potentially, a comprehensible resource.
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My setup for Serbian by using my Smart Listening with Podcasts (SLP) method
(covered in chapter 8)
In fact, nowadays you have dozens of amazing tools to translate any script or
subtitles from your target language into your native language, making your resource
comprehensible and pleasant to go through.
If, after trying these tips out, you’re still stuck on what to choose and how to get
the most out of a resource, then check out my flagship courses (the Bidirectional
Translation course for beginners and the intermediate-level course Overcoming
the Intermediate Plateau).
On a final note, before we move on to the next chapter, I recommend taking a good,
hard look at your own resources to determine if they’re:
a) no longer appropriate,
b) just right, or
c) could be used in the future
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Now you have everything you need to start building your Smart Language
Learning Machine.
However, there is one more thing I wanted to share with you.
Gathering tools and resources is critical, of course, but learning how to use them
is going to be the real difference. There is an endemic lack of know-how when it
comes to actually using language learning material well.
In a way, it’s like owning a Ferrari, but not knowing how to drive.
Stay tuned, because you are only a few pages away from becoming a smart,
effective and joyful language learner, driving your “language learning Ferrari” along
a beautiful landscape and cruising to fluency.
In the following chapter, you’ll see how meeting with the most accomplished polyglot
in the world changed my perspective about language learning methods.
So, secret agent language learners, complete the mission for this chapter. Gather
your tools and language learning materials, and get ready to take your language
learning to the next level!
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Wrap-up
Having too many resources can be overwhelming and lead to decision
fatigue.
Start with one resource at a time and focus on it for 3-4 months before
moving on to another.
The recommended resources for beginners are printed books with dialogues
in the target language accompanied by audio recordings read by native
speakers.
The recommended resources for intermediate learners are podcasts and

videos.
Podcasts should be no longer than 15-30 minutes, have clear audio, and
contain everyday, non-technical language.
It is recommended to assess your own resources to determine their

usefulness.
The goal is to build a Smart Language Learning Machine that is simple and
effective
ACTION STEP 4
Start building your Smart Language Input Machine choosing ONE
. resource for your target language that meets the criteria outlined in
the chapter. Take your time and choose wisely!
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CHAPTER 5
Let Your Principles

Guide Your Learning
“As to methods, there may be a million and then some,
but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can
successfully select his own methods. The man who tries
methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble.”
— Harrington Emerson.
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2010. Chester, Northern England.
Even gloomy gray skies and a torrent couldn’t quell my excitement.
I was about to meet one of the most astounding language learners in the world -
Richard Simcott.
To give you a little background, Richard is an Englishman who speaks an incredible

amount of languages at a very high level. He’s often been labeled as a hyperpol-
yglot.
In 2008 I saw a video where he spoke 12 languages, and I was floored. My linguistic
instincts kicked in and it became my mission to meet Richard. In fact, as soon as
I finished watching his 12-language video, I found a way to contact him and we
hopped on a Skype call.
We hit it off almost instantaneously through our love for languages. Before I knew
it, I was “Skyping” with Richard regularly.
Richard and I on a trip to Manchester (UK) in April 2010
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Every conversation was a chance to learn something new, and eventually, we de-
cided to meet in person. That’s how I ended up in Chester, nearly two years after
our first Skype session.
We spent the next seven days getting to know one another, not only as fellow poly-
glots and language enthusiasts, but as people.
Naturally, we broached the subject of methodology.
I eagerly showed him how I go about learning new languages from scratch.
As I was explaining my techniques and strategies, Richard just nodded and

listened, soaking it all in. Then, as if to throw me completely off guard, Richard said
the following with a big, disarming smile on his face:
“I don’t do and I would not do ANY of that, Luchino” (that’s what he calls me to this
day).
I was a bit perplexed.
“Surely,” I said to myself, “such an accomplished language learner must have

similar methods to mine!”
Indeed, I was admittedly quite naive.
In fact, he actually did things VERY differently from me.
I felt an acute sense of disappointment, because selfishly, I thought that I was the
only one who knew “the best, fastest way to learn a language.”
But that day, I learned one counterintuitive, but ultimate truth:
There is no single best way to learn a language. It simply does not exist.
Now don’t go closing this book just yet. What I just told you might have seemed like
a precious, closely guarded secret — something only privileged language learners
know, while the rest keep on searching forever.
In fact, there’s more to this story than you can imagine. Let’s peel back the layers
of this “onion” a little more. The death of a “best way,” allowed for the rise of a few
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truths regarding language learning that were far more enticing.
First and foremost, since there is no “right way” to learn a language, many different
and highly-effective approaches are at our fingertips, waiting to be tried and test-
ed. That explains how Richard and I both learned languages successfully through
completely different paths.
And second, since there are so many good ways to learn languages, your objective
is to find a way of learning the language that suits you as an individual.
Put simply, what works well for one person may not work well for another. However,
we can both take advantage of top-notch methods, irrespective of their differences,
as all effective techniques are rooted in a few key principles.
Allow me to elaborate.
Four Criteria to Create your Ideal Language Learning Strategy

Finding the ideal learning strategy for you requires the following criteria:
• It must be unique to your circumstances, wants, and needs as a language learner.
• It should be enjoyable, and well-aligned with your hobbies, interests, passions,

and personal life.
• It has to be efficient and should be adapted as your language skills develop over
time.
• It must also be flexible enough to withstand the inevitable highs and lows of every
day life.
Let’s dive a little deeper into each of these principles.
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Unique
First, I mentioned that your ideal learning method should be unique to you and your
circumstances.
You should always be in the driver’s seat of your language learning—you should
choose your target language, your resources, your learning goals, and everything
else that goes along with the daily practice of acquiring language. Never let some-
one impose their language learning goals and methods on you.
Regardless of which method or program you choose to follow, your path to fluency
will vary based on your background and lifestyle.
This was the impetus for my own language learning journey. Before I learned Ger-
man entirely on my own, language learning was somewhat impersonal and rigid.
However, I quickly realized one has to forge a path for themselves, not following in
someone else’s exact footsteps.
Through rigorous trial-and-error, I slowly but steadily broke down the biases and
one-size-fits-all methods from years of traditional schooling. I began experimenting
with various techniques, strategies and resources that were unique to my tastes
and circumstances.
I became the captain of the ship, determined to sail towards Fluency Island.
From that moment on, there was no looking back.
Enjoyable
Next, your ideal method should be enjoyable. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s going
to be fun all the time (spoiler alert: it won’t), but the pleasure should outweigh the
pain. Otherwise, why do it at all, right?
In this regard, learn to review and assess your language learning journey as you
go (hence the 3-month plans, remember?). If the activity you’ve chosen is fun and
you’ve leveled up your skills as a result of using it - great! if not, as Uncle Joey used
to say on Full House, “Cut. It. Out!”
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Or, you know, replace it with something a lot more enjoyable.
People frequently ask me about my “secret recipe” for acquiring so many languages.
Well, it’s not a simple or easy answer, but if I had to boil it down to ONE thing and ONE
thing only that truly makes a difference it is the following:
I don’t “like” language learning.
I LOVE it!
Before, during and after any learning session, I am enthralled, enraptured and even
dare I say… rhapsodic!
That’s what keeps me going.
That’s what gives me enough desire to burn the midnight oil.
Is there something more fun than learning a foreign language?
To me, there isn’t.
Efficient
Now, let’s talk about another key principle: efficiency.
You love it, you work hard for it, but you should also be smart about it.
No need to burn yourself out nor fade away from language learning. By “efficient,”
I mean that every time you learn your target language, you should “move the nee-
dle.” You should learn new things. Be it new words, grammar rules, bettering your
pronunciation, your speaking or improving your listening skills.
This is a fundamental rule about learning: if you never push beyond your comfort
zone, you will never improve.
But there’s a catch.
Yes, you have to push yourself to learn. Get out of your comfort zone. Yet, you must
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always remain vigilant of your limits.
In fact, if you choose activities that are too challenging, you’ll feel lost, frustrated
and ultimately, discouraged. And probably in that very same order!
Imagine being a high beginner in your target language.
Maybe you have been learning it for 3-6 months. Then you grab a novel aimed at
native speakers and try to read it in your target language, only to find out you can
barely understand it. Or you watch a movie and, well, the same result. Or, you listen
to a podcast or the radio and you can barely understand a complete sentence, let
alone some of the phrases.
Believe it or not, this happens more often than you think, and you have to be
extremely cautious about not falling into the trap.
By exceeding your limits too often and without an appropriate plan, you will slow
down your progress… a lot.
On the other hand, if you choose activities that are too easy, you will grow bored
and learn practically nothing. I’ve discovered that many language learners
continue to use beginner-level materials for months on end, even after said
materials have reached their “expiration date.” This can be a significant obstacle to
making progress.
So, after a while, you might encounter the unfortunate paradox where there are
resources or activities that are too easy for you, and still so many resources or
activities that are too hard for you.
You’ll find yourself stuck between a rock and a hard place—too easy, or too difficult—
when you’re really looking for the thing that’s “just right” for you. Something to push
you slightly outside of your comfort zone, without throwing you off of a cliff.
Think of it this way: your language learning journey is like a train that’s gradually
building speed towards Grand Station Fluency. We want to add a little more coal to
your steam engine, not overdo it and derail the train altogether.
So, what should you do?
Well, you should OWN your language learning process!
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It’s up to you to either seek out or create the appropriate resources and activities
that are “just right” for you and your level. This search is important because it helps
you stay within what I call the “Goldilocks Zone”—the area of challenge that results
in optimal learning.
The idea of “the Goldilocks Zone” is inspired primarily by a concept coined by habit
guru James Clear.
In Clear’s own words:
“The Goldilocks Rule states that humans experience peak motivation when working
on tasks that are right on the edge of their current abilities. Not too hard. Not too
easy. Just right.”
Diving deeper into the concept as it relates to habit formation, Clear says:
“If you find yourself feeling unmotivated to work on a task, it is often because it has
drifted into an area of boredom or been shoved into an area of great difficulty. You
need to find a way to pull your tasks back to the border of your abilities where you
feel challenged, but capable.”
And you have already seen how important it is to form strong habits in language
learning.
So at this point, you’re probably thinking “Okay, Luca! I get it. I don’t want ma-
terials that are too easy or too hard for me. I need to stay ‘in the zone.’”
“But how do I get IN the zone?”
Good question!
Fortunately, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine if a given
resource is in the Goldilocks Zone for you:
First, start with the essentials, as we’ve discussed before:
• Is this material comprehensible?
• Is it compelling?
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Next, you can move on to other questions, such as:
• Is this resource the right length for my average learning session? It shouldn’t be
over or underwhelming, nor should it be too short or too long.
• Can I fully comprehend the content with the help of a translation or a detailed
vocabulary list?
• Do I enjoy using this resource?
• Does using this resource leave me feeling motivated and energized?
Don’t worry too much about the exact questions you use for this exercise. You can
use some of them, all of them, or even make up your own. Essentially, the point of all
of these questions is to determine:
• If the resource is challenging enough
• If using the resource motivates you, rather than discourages you
• If you can make reasonable progress with the resource in your daily learning time
• If the resource meets those criteria, then congratulations! It’s currently “within
your Goldilocks Zone” and just the thing you should be using to learn your target
language!
Flexible
Finally, let’s talk about flexibility.
People nowadays are endlessly busy; we’ve got work, school, friends, family, pets,
and pretty much everything else vying for our attention. To fit language learn-
ing into all that, your daily learning practice has to be able to adapt to changing
circumstances. Ultimately, you want to be able to learn regardless of your current
state, be it elated or deflated. As many wise people before us have said, “consistency
is the key.”
On top of that, the manner in which you approach language learning will change
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and evolve in accordance to your skills. What excites you as a beginner will bore you
as an intermediate learner, and when you get to an advanced level, well, that’s an
entirely different ballgame. You’ll need a way to make things interesting over time.
In this regard, the Goldilocks Zone I introduced previously is something of a moving

target. In the wise words of Robert Frost, “Nothing gold can stay.” In fact, if you’re
serious about improving your language skills, almost any resource will gradually
become too easy, and eventually fall right out of your Goldilocks Zone.
In my case, I usually begin learning a language from scratch with the assistance
of my trusted aid, “Assimil.” However, like a relationship gone wrong, we tend to get
bored of each other and move on after 3-6 months. I’m sorry, “Assimil,” it’s not you,
it’s me. That’s when I jump into my next relationship, “Hey, Podcasts. How you doin’?”
After working through a specific series of podcasts, I move on to another one, and
then I do the same for videos. I focus on a particular set of videos (such as the
“Super Easy Language” series) and then I progress to the “Easy Language” series,
which covers the same content but at a higher level.
So remember: as you learn more and more of your target language, your skills and
abilities will change over time. Certain things that were once challenging for you will
become too easy, and things that were once far beyond your reach will become
fun, and engaging.
For the purpose of maintaining motivation over the long term, it’s pivotal that you
evaluate your resources and methodology, to ensure you’re staying golden (aka in
the Goldilocks Zone).
Follow this principle and your learning will always remain engaging.
However, it is also important to be aware of the fact that if you’re learning and
making progress, no one resource will remain in the Goldilocks Zone forever. Soon,
the things that were once just right for you will become too easy, or even totally
boring. So finding new learning materials that are “just right” for you will always
have to be an important part of your learning process.
This is best done in a timeframe we’ve talked about before: every three months.
If you follow my previous recommendations and reassess your language goals every
three months, then you’ll also have a perfect opportunity to revisit your learning
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methods and see if any changes need to be made.
Ask yourself:
• Are your learning activities still unique?
• Are they still interesting to you?
• Are your learning activities still enjoyable?
• Are they still challenging?
If the answer to any of those questions is “no,” then you’ve got a perfect opportunity
to revise your method and make it even more effective going forward.
I’ve placed the keys in your hands, and now it’s time for you to start the engine and
shift the gear into "L" for learning mode. Your ride will be entirely different from mine,
from the vehicle you choose to the roads you embark upon, but at the end of the
day, you’ve got your GPS (the guiding principles) to make sure you find your way
home… to fluency!
In the next chapter, we’ll tackle the age-old language learning dilemma: to speak
or not to speak (from day one), that is the question!
I found out the answer… the hard way… the hard Hungarian way! Yes, it was a costly
experiment on my end, but one that would definitely pay off in the long run as it
changed my mindset in regards to balancing input and output.
And the best part? You don’t have to go through a brutal period of language-learn-
ing-limbo like I did. Making just one simple change to your approach can drastically
improve your results.
I can’t wait to tell you about it!
Complete your mission for this chapter and once you’ve identified your principles,
meet me in the next chapter.
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Wrap-up
There is no single best method for learning a language, but there are
effective principles that can guide the learning process.
You must find the best method for yourself, based on your own circumstances,
passions, interests and learning style.
Your learning method should be unique and tailored to your needs, enjoyable,
efficient and flexible.
To ensure the effectiveness of your learning method, it is necessary to

regularly evaluate your progress and adapt the method accordingly.
In particular, it is important to avoid activities that are too easy or too

difficult, and instead seek resources that challenge your abilities in an
optimal way (aka Goldilocks Zone).
Learning a language requires consistent time and effort, so it is important

to maintain the motivation and flexibility to adapt to the changing
circumstances of life.
ACTION STEP 5
As you put your daily learning routine into place, ask yourself if it
follows the principles of uniqueness, enjoyment, efficiency and
flexibility. Use these principles to craft your best language learning
strategy.
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CHAPTER 6
Make Input Your

Top Priority
“We acquire language from input. We learn from understanding what
we read and what we hear, not from speaking and writing.
Our ability to speak and write fluidly and accurately is the result
of acquiring language from input.”
— Stephen Krashen
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In September 2015, I officially started learning Hungarian.
About a year later, in the beginning of 2017, I was fortunate enough to be able to
reach an intermediate level in the language—around a B1 on the CEFR scale.
At that point, my approach to learning Hungarian revolved primarily around prac-

ticing one skill: speaking! I simply loved to speak Hungarian, and would practice
every chance I got.
Now, as far as goals go, this is totally fine. I’ve even mentioned earlier in this guide
that it’s completely normal to envision yourself one day conversing in your target
language, and then construct all of your learning objectives so that they help make
that vision a reality.
And come to think of it, isn’t it what you want as well? To speak your target language
fluently!
Sure, listening, reading and writing are important, don’t get me wrong.
But I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that most learners (and that includes you as
well!) consider speaking more important than others.
It’s the flashiest of all the skills because it simultaneously looks the hardest and the
coolest. Look at the viral language related videos on social media. They’re all about
shocking native speakers… by speaking their language fluently!
So, that’s the one skill I mostly focused on when learning Hungarian.
To improve my speaking skills, I had regular meetings with two — yes, two! — dif-
ferent Hungarian tutors per week: one on Monday, and one on Wednesday, for 30
minutes each. Aside from that, I would spend much of my learning time reviewing the
audio from those lessons, and even re-enacting the conversations while doing chores
around the house.
How long do you think I followed this schedule for?
A. Three weeks?
B. Three months?
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C. Or three years?
The correct answer is surprisingly… C!
Three. Whole. Years.
I had initially suspected and hoped that following this intensive speaking strategy
would quickly skyrocket me to success in all areas of the Hungarian language.
However, that Hungarian rocket burst into flames and crash landed into a vast
ocean of stalled language learning.
Three years of tutoring and four years with the language as a whole had gotten me
to B1 (that is, a lower intermediate level). However, I had hit the B1 level within the first
year and then I had simply stayed there.
So what gives?
I could hold a conversation in Hungarian just fine, but when I went to practice other
skills—like listening to a short podcast or reading an intermediate-level text — I was
completely lost!
Something was wrong, and I was determined to find out why.
Input vs Output
My three year failure to improve my Hungarian level via speaking was bothering
me. Unnerved, I kept asking myself the same question over and over.
“What’s happening?” I can remember distinct feelings of uncertainty creeping into

my thought process. “I’m working so hard at learning Hungarian. Why aren’t my
listening and reading skills improving at the same speed my speaking skills are?”
I later discovered the answer to my question in a quote by noted linguist Stephen

Krashen:
“We acquire language from input. We learn from understanding what we read and
what we hear, not from speaking and writing. Our ability to speak and write fluidly
and accurately is the result of acquiring language from input.”
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My Hungarian Teacher, Petra, and I on the hills of Buda (in Budapest) in the summer of 2022
That quote changed everything.
It made me instantly realize one sobering truth about my strategy for learning
Hungarian:
I had my priorities all wrong.
In a nutshell, too much output and not enough input.
And not only does prioritizing speaking lead to poor listening and reading skills, but
prioritizing speaking, and doing so prematurely, will be a taxing experience, primarily
because you lack a foundation of the basic grammar or vocabulary to even con-
struct simple sentences.
This approach can be mentally and emotionally draining, as you constantly fear that
you might make a mistake, and feel embarrassed when you inevitably do make it.
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Now, I’m not going to say that learning to speak will ever be truly easy, but there is
certainly a much easier way to learn to speak, and that’s by doing so AFTER you’ve
already spent large amounts of time learning to both read and listen.
In simpler terms, if you focus on improving your listening and reading first, developing
your speaking and writing skills later will be a smoother, less demotivating process.
Switching Things Up
After stumbling upon that fateful quote and delving more into Krashen’s work and
theory about language learning acquisition, at the beginning of 2020, I changed
my strategy — I closed my mouth and opened up the books.
First, I researched material within my “Goldilocks Zone” to keep my interest and keep
me focused while improving my Hungarian. I settled on resources like Easy Hungar-
ian and Hungarian with Sziszi, which came with both scripts and audio to help me
improve my listening and reading skills at the same time.
After finding these resources, I reorganized my learning schedule.
Instead of predominantly focusing on speaking, I dedicated myself to spending 30

to 45 minutes daily, immersed in Hungarian via a strict input-heavy diet.
Before long, I was engaging with diverse and fascinating content every single day
through reading and listening. Whether it was doing both simultaneously, reading
then listening, or even going back and re-reading after just listening, I was fully im-
mersed in the language.
In just a few months, I witnessed a significant improvement in my Hungarian skills,

thanks to my emphasis on input. My ability to comprehend intermediate-level con-
tent had increased exponentially, and as a result, my language learning journey
had become much more enjoyable and rewarding!
And it didn’t stop there! Despite trading in my speaking-centric approach for one
centered around listening and reading, I didn’t completely abandon speaking in
Hungarian. I continued with my twice-a-week sessions, and as I honed my listen-
ing and reading skills, I discovered that my speaking ability had suddenly become
more fluent and effortless, just as Krashen had proclaimed!
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Following this input-first, output-second approach for an entire year was a real
turning point for me. Not just in Hungarian, but also with every language I’ve learned
since. It has helped me learn faster and more effectively, and made it easier for me
to acquire aspects of language that are traditionally harder to learn, like grammar,
intonation, and pronunciation.
In fact, I adopted an “input first” method when tackling the next language - Greek -
and it has worked wonders for me. Not only do I understand it exponentially better
than when I first started, but now I speak it fluently! And needless to say, I am using
the exact same approach for the language I’m learning right now: Serbian.
Three Types of Language Learning Activities

So, how does this change of language learning strategy work?
The short answer is, to acquire a language, your brain needs to be exposed to it as
much as possible. You must repeatedly see and hear the same words, patterns,
phrases and sounds until your brain can process, organize, and interpret them in
a meaningful way.
There is no shortcut to this process, despite what others may claim. You cannot
simply “download” a language into your brain in the same way Neo “learned” Kung
Fu in The Matrix. Well, at least, not yet!
The bottom line is you need years of exposure to rich, comprehensible and mean-
ingful content. This is how you learned as a child, and it still applies to you as an
adult.
However, there is one specific limitation that children have that you don’t: you do
not need to practice input for years before you can seriously consider meaningful,
fluent output.
Quite the contrary.
As an adult learner, you only need to focus on input for the first few months of your
language learning journey. After that, you can begin working on both input and
output simultaneously. However, input should still make up the majority of your
language exposure. The remaining time can be dedicated to as many output
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activities as you’d prefer.
Personally, I like to consider my speaking practices as the “cherry on top” of a big,

beautiful “input cake.”
If there’s one “golden rule” I’d love you to take away from this book, it’s that input
comes first, and output comes second. Not just sequentially, but in terms of priority.
As you schedule your learning time each day, make sure that most of what you are
doing are input-based activities, as opposed to output-based-activities.
Input-based activities are listening and reading. These activities can involve just
one of those skills, or a combination of both. Examples include listening to a pod-
cast, reading a short text, watching a YouTube video with target language subtitles,
or re-listening to a recording of a conversation you had with a tutor. Again, these
activities should form the bulk of your language learning time.
Output-based activities, on the other hand, are speaking and writing. As with their
input-based counterparts, these skills can be practiced on their own or together,
though you’ll generally encounter them on their own. Examples include speaking
with a tutor, speaking to yourself, reading a text out loud, writing an academic es-
say, and writing a text message to a friend.
Now that we’ve established these two primary activity types, I’d like to add a third—
one that you’re probably very familiar with already — study activities. These can
involve any of the four language skills mentioned above, but they’re generally not
very effective for language learning overall. If you’ve ever taken a language class
in school, you’ll recognize these activities as the kinds of things you spend most of
your time doing during class time.
Examples include engaging in grammar drills, writing and reviewing vocabulary

lists, taking tests, and more. In certain cases, doing these activities can be valuable
for your learning, but you need to know how to approach them correctly. In general,
these activities should not take up more than 5-10% of your learning time.
Great! Now that we’ve clearly defined these three categories of activities, I want to
share with you a straightforward way to visualize how much time you should allocate
to each type of activity.
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The Language Learning Pyramid
Imagine a pyramid. It has a broad base and gradually tapers off towards the top.
The base of the language learning pyramid is composed of input activities. Since
this section is the broadest, these activities should take up the majority of your
learning.
Moving up the pyramid, the middle section is made up of output activities. You
should do plenty of these, but never as much as you do input activities.
And at the tippy top, the peak of the pyramid is devoted to study activities - the
smallest section. While you shouldn’t ignore these activities, especially if you find
them interesting, they shouldn’t take up a significant chunk of your study efforts.
This is how an efficient language learning strategy should be organized. Interest-

ingly, most inefficient learning strategies are constructed in reverse—study activi-
ties take up the most time, followed by output activities, and then by input activities.
Whether or not you’ve followed such a strategy before, you should be aware of it, so
you don’t fall into the trap it sets for so many learners.
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An Inefficient Learning Strategy
If you’re all about speaking but haven’t gotten a handle on listening and reading, you
might end up feeling stuck and really freaking frustrated. That’s where input comes in.
You need to spend most of your language learning time soaking up content through
listening and reading, and then move onto speaking and writing.
And don’t get me wrong, studying can be important, but it shouldn’t take up too
much of your time. Just follow the language learning pyramid: input first, output
second, and study activities last. This way, you’ll make your way to fluency way
faster!
Here’s an example to help streamline all of this information:
Given a certain amount of time you dedicate to language learning every day, make
sure that you:
1. Spend 80% of your time on input.
2. 15% of your time on output.
3. 5% of your time in study activities.
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For example, if you have an hour a day:
48 minutes on input
9 minutes on output
3 minutes on study activities
This is just an example, but I wanted to give you an idea of how your time should be
allocated when it comes to language learning. Feel free to round the numbers (45
minutes instead of 48 etc.) to your liking, but stick to the 80/15/5 formula.
One last precaution to keep top of mind before you get started.
When adopting an input first strategy, you’re going to see results fairly quickly.
Going input-heavy is definitely the right choice, but, like any other moving part of
language learning, you have to learn to do it properly.
There is one big problem that causes most students to get bogged down when it
comes to using input.
A problem that affected me for 24 months.
In the next chapter, I will reveal how you can avoid getting mired in this problem
and start having a blast with your target language.
All you need to do is to read on!
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Wrap-up
Input is crucial in language learning, as it helps you acquire the language and
improve your speaking and writing skills.
Prioritizing speaking too early can lead to poor listening and reading skills,
and difficulties in building sentences.
Learning through input-based activities (such as listening and reading)

should be prioritized in the beginning, and output-based activities such
(as speaking and writing) should be added later.
The Language Learning Pyramid is a helpful model to conceptualize how much

time should be spent on each activity type, with input activities taking up the
most time, followed by output activities, and study activities taking up the least
amount of time.
By following the pyramid in the right order, you can make faster progress
towards fluency.
ACTION STEP 6
Re-examine the learning habits you established as part of Rule 3, and
make sure that input activities take up 80% of your time, and output
and study activities (speaking, writing and grammar drills) take up
no more than 20% of your total daily learning time.
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CHAPTER 7
Build Your Smart

Grammar Machine
“Learn grammar from language and not language from grammar”
— Lomb Kató
B C
A
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In September 1991, it was my first year of middle school, and at the ripe age of 10,
I officially started learning English.
I already told you about my disastrous start with the English language and my pro-
nunciation problems with English at that time, but pronunciation was only one of
the numerous problems I had with Shakespeare’s language.
The other glaring issue was grammar.
For those of you who have spent time in traditional classrooms, you’ll know that
learning grammar takes up a large portion of learning foreign languages. Much of
the curriculum in any language class is devoted to learning grammar structures
like verb tenses, conjugations, noun declensions, and so on. As a student, you were
probably required to learn these concepts via “drill and kill,” constantly filling out
verb tables and fill-in-the-blank exercises.
This traditional method is essentially learning grammar for grammar’s sake.
If you learn this way, you’re not applying grammar rules in their natural context
(i.e., spoken conversation and written texts), but rather you’re taking them out of
context so you can supposedly focus on them and learn them better.
With this approach, you’re attempting to learn your target language by absorbing
the grammar first. Much like output before input, it’s a recipe for disaster.
Here is how my English classes in middle school unfolded:
• Our English teacher explained a given grammar rule
• We did some exercises related to that grammar rule
• We “applied that grammar rule” when speaking English in class
Two years of this approach resulted in, well… an abysmal understanding of the English
language and I barely made any progress towards fluency. To make matters worse,
it completely paralyzed me every time I went to speak. Instead of saying what
I wanted to, my mind had to process the grammar rules, apply them, and then pray
to the language gods that I had said something correctly. Spoiler alert - I never did.
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I wanted every single word to come out perfectly, but that never made me feel
comfortable. In fact, it only exacerbated the feeling of unease and anxiousness.
Here are two examples of my train of thought at the time:
Can I sit at table? …the table? ….a table? ….this table?
Tomorrow, I am… go… going…. goes… to my friend’s house.
On a good day, I could say a few things. On almost any other day, I could barely
speak. Much to the disappointment of my English teacher and my parents.
There is no sugarcoating it: I was a subpar English student and an even worse
English speaker.
Or so I thought.
As with every disappointment, there’s a silver lining. Something I realized only decades
later:
It had nothing to do with me, or with you, either! It had everything to do with a huge
misconception about how human beings actually learn and internalize the gram-
mar of any language, including our own.
We’re going to change that and dispel any age old misconceptions - right now! It’s
time to learn how to learn grammar, no matter the language.
Four Key Aspects to Learning Grammar Efficiently

I’ll show you how to learn the grammar of any language efficiently by addressing
three key aspects of language learning and, along the way, I am going to show you
how to build your Smart Grammar Machine.
Building your Smart Grammar Machine relies on four key pillars.
1. Pillar #1: Learn grammar through language in context
2. Pillar #2: Learn grammar from massive input
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3. Pillar #3: Stick to the 90-10 rule
4. Pillar #4: Adopt a 3-step approach to learning any grammar rule
Let’s get started!
Pillar # 1 - Learn Grammar through Language in Context

Here is a simple but powerful truth: You should always learn grammar from
language and not the other way around.
I did the opposite and tried learning English from grammar. Big mistake.
No wonder why my attempts to learn grammar the traditional way completely

failed with English.
Three years later, at the age of 15, I found myself making the same mistakes when
learning German. However, I discovered something new just a few weeks into my
studies. Instead of relying on grammar books, I started immersing myself in inter-
esting dialogues from a new language course that I had recently purchased. It was
the popular “De Agostini” language courses from the roaring 90s!
Why hello there, input, my trusty old pal!
When going through the De Agostini course, I didn’t make a conscious effort to
learn any grammar. Instead, I listened to and read the dialogues over and over
again. I only referred to grammar notes when I needed to understand a specific
grammar rule inside a given dialogue. The grammar notes were brief. If I did not
understand them, I didn’t dwell on it. I had full confidence that sooner or later, with
more exposure, things would click.
It worked like a charm.
I was absorbing the grammar patterns subconsciously!
Years later, I came across this quote by the renowned Hungarian Polyglot Lomb
Kató (or Kató Lomb, as we say in English), which you read at the beginning of this
chapter:
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The legendary 1996 De Agostini Course for German
“You can’t learn language from grammar, but grammar from language.”
Bingo.
A short, elegant, all-encompassing quote about everything I had suspected or

feared to confess (to myself) about my ordeal learning English grammar at school.
Almost miraculously, it all made perfect sense.
In school, the main emphasis was on memorizing grammar rules, even if the goal
was to become fluent in a foreign language.
However, a more effective means of learning a language would be to concentrate

on improving listening, reading, speaking and writing skills by practicing with
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authentic, natural language.
This is why learning the notoriously difficult German grammar felt like a breeze! I
was developing language skills first, and the grammar knowledge was only helping
me develop language skills further. It wasn’t the sole focus of my studies anymore,
but just a part of the entire experience.
Counterintuitive, isn’t it? Just like most language learning!
Pillar #2: Learn Grammar from Massive Input

In Chapter 6 (Make Input your Top Priority) you learned about the vital role that input
plays in language acquisition.
Now, let’s take a look at that rule through the lens of learning grammar.
The more meaningful, interesting and comprehensible content you consume, the
more your brain is going to absorb “language samples” and start figuring out
patterns by itself.
In other words, your brain takes on the majority of the responsibility for grammar.
Surprisingly, most of our learning happens unconsciously. The brain operates as a
machine for learning patterns, but to discern these patterns, it needs to be supplied
with the appropriate “mental food.” Rather than relying on grammar drills (pro-
cessed foods), a better use of your time is to use grammar in context (grass-fed).
When your brain gets exposed to a massive amount of language it can under-
stand, it will go through a “language digestion process.” And just like your stomach
needs some time to digest food, so does your brain.
This is how you learned grammar in your own native language. You naturally
absorbed it and implicitly learned the fundamental grammar rules through count-
less hours of exposure and interaction.
While it’s true that you can spend time focusing on grammar if you’re passionate
about it and want to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of your target
language, it’s not necessary to obsess over grammar in order to assimilate the
language and become fluent.
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Absolutely no one learns their first language by using conjugation tables or doing
fill-in-the-blank grammar drills.
Yet, you’re still sitting at your desk and mindlessly going through grammar work-
sheet after grammar worksheet to learn your second (or even third) language!
Grammar is best learned through using the language naturally. By following my

suggestions and prioritizing your input skills (listening and reading), you will grad-
ually become familiar with the rules and grammar patterns of the language you’re
learning. In most cases, you don’t have to actively practice grammar, it’ll become
apparent to you over time with gradual exposure to the language.
Which means you better prepare a plan to consume as much content in your
target language as possible. That, in and of itself, is the overwhelming bulk of the
work.
Pillar #3: Stick to the 90-10 Rule

Now, you might be thinking, “All right Luca, I have thrown away all of my grammar
workbooks and I’m ready to jump into learning solely through in-context materials!”
This “100%-in-my-target-language approach” might work, but it rarely does.
Let me break it down.
Let’s imagine that you are an Italian learning Spanish. In that case, because the
languages are very similar in terms of grammar and structure, it will be relatively
easy and straightforward to understand and absorb grammar patterns through
massive exposure to Spanish without any explicit grammar rules.
However, even in that scenario, certain grammar rules may escape your grasp.
In most instances, you will struggle to comprehend the nuances of your target
language, be it verb conjugation, sentence structure, gender usage, and numerous
other intricacies solely through immersion in your target language.
If you’re ever left scratching your head because of the grammar within your target
language, you’ve got two options:
1. You can move on (without looking anything up), confident that the grammar
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pattern will show up again as you continue to expose yourself to the language.
2. You can look for a short-and-sweet explanation of the grammar pattern,

either in your coursebook or online.
That second option is specifically what I was referring to when I mentioned “finding
good resources with supplementary grammar explanations” in one of the previous
chapters. They’re excellent for learning grammar in brief, structured intervals with-
out requiring you to spend excessive amounts of time on them, unlike traditional
grammar methods.
This is where resources that provide dialogues paired with concise and easy-to-un-
derstand grammar notes can be extremely useful and beneficial, especially (but
not only) if you are a beginner.
Hence why I suggest abiding by the “90-10 grammar learning rule.”
Allocate 90% (you can push it to 95% if you’re feeling comfortable) of the time on the
meaning of your selected content (comprehension) and only 10% (you can lower it
to 5%, if you’re feeling confident) on specific grammar rules. Keep this rule in mind
when planning how much to spend on your daily learning sessions.
Do this for each activity.
For example, if you are a beginner and you spend 30 minutes on a dialogue, spend
27 minutes listening or reading and 3 minutes on reading grammar explanations.
If you are an intermediate language learner, and, say, you are analyzing a podcast,
spend 50 minutes listening and reading, re-listening, etc., and only 5-10 minutes
looking up some grammar rules that you want to better understand related to the
content of the podcast.
And now, let’s dive deeper into the practical application of this concept in the fourth
pillar.
Pillar 4: Adopt a 3-Step Approach to Any Grammar Rule

Many language learners approach dialogues in their beginner textbooks by reading
or listening to the dialogues too little, and they spend the majority of their time
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actually trying to analyze its grammatical rules to perfection.
Especially at the beginning, when you are not familiar with the grammar structures
of your target language, this approach can be time-consuming and frustrating,
since you will probably struggle to understand most grammar explanations. This
can result in wasting valuable learning time.
In fact, by doing this, they’re spending an excessive amount of time trying to figure
out what the dialogue says and how it works. Are they spending most of their time
consuming material or looking up rules that are still rather unclear to them?
If you guessed the latter, you’re right. They’ve probably spent upwards of 20
precious minutes deciphering grammar rules that simply won’t make sense. Ouch,
well, there goes another half hour of “language learning.”
Sound familiar?
Here is a smarter approach:
1. Consume a piece of content in your target language.
Try to understand it through the translation in your native language. For beginners,
this piece of content can be a dialogue, for intermediate learners a podcast.
Test your comprehension by comparing the two languages and see how much you
can understand by yourself.
2. Check the grammar explanations (or look for grammar explanations on the internet).
Keep this activity as brief and as simple as possible.
3. Revisit the content after understanding the grammar.
Even if your understanding is not perfect, don’t let perfection get in the way of
progress. As you get more familiar with the language, grammar explanations you
struggled to grasp will become crystal-clear.
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And this is exactly what I did when I first learned German!
Here is how I worked through each piece of content within my De Agostini course for
German (and later for Spanish):
• I read and listened to the same dialogue in German multiple times.
• I looked up the meaning of the vocabulary session and the grammar notes (in my
native Italian) to understand words and grammar structures.
• I read and listened to the dialogue again.
And here is the reason why it worked so well - something I realized only decades
later. By doing so, I spent 90% of the time enjoying the content and only 10% of my
time focusing on grammar, which allowed each session to be a lot more efficient
and pleasant.
When you first try to understand the content by yourself, your brain is being challenged.
This effort is critical for learning. Even if you only partially understand, and some
grammar structures are unclear, that’s totally fine.
Once you have put in some effort trying to solve the problem of understanding
a given piece of content by yourself, reading a grammar rule will help you fill in the
gaps. This is what I call the SFKS (skill-first-knowledge-second) approach to input.
Think of it like a radio station you “tune” into to get the most out of your language
learning.
“Hello and welcome to SFKS 93.3, where language learning and grammar rules are
unlocked for thee.”
The third and final step is to go through the content one more time. This step will
allow your brain to put all of the pieces of the puzzle together. By sheer exposure
and a quick grammar explanation here or there, your brain will merge skill and
knowledge. As a result, you will improve - consciously and subconsciously - your
reading, listening and speaking skills.
To put it bluntly: if you want to learn a foreign language like a pro, you need to
adjust the way you unpack grammar by creating your very own “Smart Grammar
Machine.”
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The key is to focus on learning in context and avoid those boring grammar drills that
have been sapping your enthusiasm for learning - and for life! Spend the majori-
ty of your time consuming compelling content, and keep any necessary grammar
reviews short and concise. Trust in your brain, it’ll take care of the rest.
Now that you know how to deal with grammar, you’re going to see how to handle
another problematic and pressing issue for every language learner - listening.
Thanks to a fateful trip to Russia, watching Terminator 2, and endless French movie
nights, you’ll find out how I was able to improve my listening comprehension skills
by leaps and bounds.
As has been the case so far, the answer lies in a method that seems counterintuitive
on the surface, but works wonders. My only ask of you is to trust the process.
And then, once you shift your mindset, you’ll experience a language learning
change that’ll last a lifetime.
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Wrap-up
Learn grammar from language and not the other way around. Context is king.
To build your “Smart Grammar Learning Machine,” follow these four essential
pillars:
Pillar #1: Drop the grammar workbooks and begin learning grammar naturally,
from the language itself.
Pillar #2: Get massive amounts of input, especially from compelling material, so
your brain can start working its magic and begin recognizing grammatical
patterns.
Pillar #3: Use the 90-10% rule, spending 90% of your time on content and 10% on
specific grammar rules.
Pillar #4: Adopt a SFKS (skill-first-knowledge-second) approach, which involves

a 3-step process of focusing on understanding the content first, using brief
grammar explanations to solidify understanding, and then revisiting content
again to merge your skills and knowledge.
ACTION STEP 7
Use the 4 pillars to restructure and reorganize the way you learn
grammar within your overall language learning schedule. While
implementing your daily learning routine, aim to spend no more
than five to ten minutes on studying grammar. If you encounter any
doubts or questions, you can refer to the brief grammar explanations
in your language resource to clarify any missing information.
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CHAPTER 8
Build Your Listening

Comprehension Machine
“So when you are listening to somebody, completely, attentively,
then you are listening not only to the words, but also to the feeling
of what is being conveyed, to the whole of it, not part of it.”
— Jiddu Krishnamurti
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Back in 2013, I was invited to attend a language conference in Moscow, Russia.
As part of the invitation, I was offered to stay at the family home of the woman who
organized the event. Her name was Dina, and during my stay, we naturally spent
lots of time talking about languages and language learning.
During one of our conversations, we got to talking about Dina’s English. She spoke
the language decently, but she struggled with pronunciation, and I could tell that
this was eating her alive. She clearly wanted to speak better, but felt that any effort
in this regard was futile. In her mind, she had developed a number of habits that
hindered her ability to speak English more naturally. The whole can’t-teach-an-
old-dog-new-tricks mentality, right?
The culprit, as she eventually explained, was the fact that her initial strategy for
learning English was based entirely around reading. She would read text after text,
dialogue after dialogue, but she rarely got the chance to hear how the language
sounded. Without an accurate model of pronunciation, her brain just made do with
the closest thing it had—the Russian sound system. This, in turn, led to Dina having
a thick Russian accent whenever she tried to speak English.
This was the exact same mistake I made when I first learned English. It was a serious
one, but not quite irreparable.
In hindsight, this should have come as no surprise. In fact, until I started working
with Susan, the tutor my parents had hired to help me, I spent most of my time in
the classroom learning grammar rules or trying to have broken conversations.
I rarely had the opportunity to listen to native English speakers in action, let alone
actively practice my listening skills. Of course, this lack of listening practice to spoken,
authentic English led to very poor listening skills and pronunciation.
Once again, it’s crucial to remember that - input is king! And if input is king, that
means that listening is the hand of the king.
Fortunately, everything changed when I started working with Susan, my beloved

American tutor.
However, this wasn’t solely due to having weekly conversations with her. While that
certainly helped, there was another factor that made a significant impact.
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Every week Susan would bring me a movie on a VHS tape. Yes, welcome to the
analog world of the nineties! And I would eagerly watch and rewatch the movie
during the week, before receiving and consuming the next one.
Not only did Susan provide content that was rich and compelling, but I was exposed
to American culture through Hollywood. The most accurate and honest source of
information about a country’s strengths and weaknesses… just kidding.
I was watching a movie almost every day, including the likes of:
Top Gun
Forrest Gump
Terminator 2
“Hasta la vista, Baby”
I started following this “method of madness” with determination and grit. And just
two years after that fateful day when I received my first movie on VHS, I ended up
doing the same with French.
Fortunately for French, no video tapes were necessary. Here in Italy, we could watch
the French TV Channel France 2. Every night, for another two years in a row, I took
pleasure in sitting on my comfy couch and I basked in the glory of La Boum, la
Haine, Le Dîner des cons and countless others!
It was a good time to be in Luca Town.
The bottom line of all this is that in both languages, while I was at home, I spent
hours and hours listening to English and French. That was my primary activity. As a
result, school, homework and classroom activities had become ridiculously easy to
do. They had fallen by the wayside and became dead last in terms of priorities and
importance.
My schoolmates and my teachers were quite surprised at the progress I was mak-
ing, and at the time, I was quite surprised myself. I started understanding everything,
dramatically improved my pronunciation, and even my speaking skills sky-rocketed!
It didn’t occur to me at the time, but immersing myself in massive amounts of
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exposure to natural, spoken language had made all the difference.
Eventually, it all started to click. The more you listen to your target language, the
more your brain becomes familiar with it. The brain is a pattern-building machine.
The more patterns, examples and samples you give it, the more it learns.
Susan and I back in 1993
The Importance of Listening

Think about how you learn your own native language.
What is the very first thing you do during your first years of your life, alongside
blubbering incoherent syllables here and there?
Listen!
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Escuchar!
Ascoltare!
Écouter!
And even later at school, during class, listening is still your primary activity when it
comes to acquiring your native language.
No need to do the math here, but you can imagine the gargantuan amount of
hours you have spent listening to your native language.
As an adult, you have fewer possibilities of listening to your target language all the
time. However, you’re still able to accomplish a lot with today’s technology and
a few tweaks to your routine.
The bottom line is: the more you listen to your target language, the better.
You might be wondering: Ok Luca, I got it. But what should I listen to? When? For how
long?
That’s where the handy dandy “Listening Comprehension Machine” comes into
play!
To build this “machine” you need 3 core elements that I refer to as the WWH:
1. WHAT
2. WHEN
3. HOW
WHAT to Listen to
Nowadays you have a plethora of resources you can choose from when it comes to
listening: ranging from podcasts, YouTube videos, movies, TV series, news and even
the good old radio.
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This is all great and good, but some (if not most) of these resources are out of reach
until you reach what I call a critical comprehension threshold.
For example, if you have been learning French for roughly 3 months, watching
a YouTube video aimed at French speakers, the news, a TV show or a movie will
most surely be out of reach for you. Entirely outside of your Goldilocks Zone.
You won’t understand much even if you have a script or subtitles, because you
don’t have the necessary knowledge in terms of vocabulary, and/or grammar.
Therefore, If you’re a beginner, focus on material that comes with natural dialogues,
accompanying audio, and a native language translation. Read the text as you
listen to the audio file. We’ve already discussed ideal materials and resources in
previous chapters.
If you’re an intermediate learner, I highly recommend selecting podcasts that

include dialogues with authentic conversations about everyday life (or engaging
topics) along with written transcripts. As you progress, you can transition to videos
and gradually advance to more challenging material.
If you are a more advanced learner, you can simply listen to the radio, watch
YouTube videos, consume the news, watch movies or TV shows. The world is yours!
Listening and reading in my natural habit - a balcony in Rome :)
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HOW to Listen
To develop your listening skills as a beginner in your target language, the best way
is to practice listening and reading at the same time.
Just find a text with natural dialogues, accompanying audio, and a native language
translation. Read the text as you listen to the audio file. Make sure you understand the
content deeply. This should be relatively easy because if you have chosen the right
material, you will have all the tools to do it (translation, vocabulary lists, grammar
explanations).
As mentioned above, if you have an intermediate level, I recommend using pod-

casts. Here is when things get tricky, since normally podcasts don’t come with
explanations or grammar lists. Regardless, you can adapt by using translation tools
to create your own bilingual version of the text.
Once you do that, you’ll have an arsenal of powerful “language learning weapons”
for improving your listening comprehension.
Here is an example of how the entire concept is put into action in a real scenario:
Imagine you have been learning French for 12 months.
You want to start listening to a podcast series.
You find one you really like.
The first podcast comes with a 10-minute audio file and a script in French. You decide
to copy the text into Google Translate (or DeepL) and translate it into English, your
native language. You print the translation, not just to have it handy, but to actively
use it.
At this point you have audio in French and two texts, one in English and one in
French. Think about what you can do with these when it comes to listening.
You can, for example:
• Listen to the audio in your target language (e.g., French) while reading the
corresponding text in the same language.
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• Listen to the audio in your target language (e.g., French) while reading the English
translation of the text.
• Listen to the audio of the English translation of the text while reading the
corresponding text in your target language (e.g., French).
• Simply listen to the audio in your target language (e.g., French) without reading
any text.
If you try them out, you’ll see that each of these activities has its own advantages
and disadvantages, but they all stimulate your brain in unique ways.
These steps are part of a technique which I call “Smart Language Learning
with Podcasts” (which is one of the primary techniques covered in-depth in the
Overcoming the Intermediate Plateau Course).
For a podcast with a 15 minute audio file, it takes me approximately an hour to go

through all these steps. In terms of ROI (Return On Investment), this is an hour well
spent in language learning land.
And now comes the interesting part.
While I go through the various steps, my mind creates a story. It conjures up images
of actions, scenes, and situations. Instead of trying to focus on each word, I focus on
the big picture - the overall narrative.
Through the analysis of bilingual scripts in both the native and target language,
I gain a comprehensive understanding of the podcast by actively listening to it. This
process provides me with an intimate look at the content, leading to the emergence
of a series of vivid mental images in my mind.
In other words, my mind naturally develops a visual representation of the text and
audio, tapping into our innate ability to transform the words being read and heard
into people, places, and things - even if they’re not literally in front of me.
Unless you belong to a minor portion of the population who has “aphantasia” - the
incapacity to conjure up images in their mind - you can use your innate ability
every time you choose to listen to a piece of content you have already understood.
This activity acts as a check for understanding. You’ll be surprised at how much you
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can learn from each subsequent listening session, whether it’s a few days or even
a few weeks later.
Spending an hour breaking down and analyzing the podcast can greatly improve
your memory and your familiarity with the language, as we’ll discuss further in the
next chapter.
“But this is cheating! It is too easy this way!” You might retort.
It is “cheating” only if you think you have to perform. The goal here is not to test
whether you understand any given piece of content. It is not about performing.
Snap out of this detrimental “I-have-to-perform” language mentality.
You are not in school anymore. Your main goal is to quickly establish and improve
your listening comprehension.
Do you see the difference in mindset?
In fact, as your skills increase, and you get more comfortable with simultaneous
listening and reading, you can eventually try out just listening.
But only do that when you feel like you can understand most of what you’re listening
to without trouble; if you don’t understand the majority of what you’re listening to,
you won’t get much (if any) value from it.
It is crucial that whatever your level, you always consume content that you can
understand.
And in this regard, here is an important question.
How can you do it in an easy, fun and efficient way?
Or even better, how can you do it “the smart way”?
The concept is straightforward.
Combine new material, which you approach analytically (for example through the
“Smart Listening to Podcast” technique) while reviewing old material by simply
listening to it.
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That’s exactly what I have been doing for Greek over the last three years.
I use my Smart Learning with Podcasts technique to tackle a new podcast every
week, and on the other days, I listen to previous podcasts randomly. Easy, fun and
efficient. Give it a try and you will see for yourself!
WHEN to Listen
Of course, “what” and “how” are important, but “WHEN” to listen is just as important.
You need to find a simple and sustainable way to implement this on a daily and
weekly basis.
If you’re a beginner, I recommend reading and listening to your chosen material for
a few months - three to six months - before moving on to podcasts. This implies
that you sit down, focus and put in the time.
If you’re an intermediate learner, my recommendation would be to dedicate time to

listening to at least 1-2 new podcasts a week (something fresh and new!) Then, on
the other days, you can choose audio content that you’ve already listened to and
broken down.
Here’s the key to getting this accomplished on a daily basis.
Remember the advice about forming unstoppable language learning habits?
My simple suggestion here is to pair your review activity with another activity that
requires minimal focus and effort. Believe me, there are plenty of opportunities to
squeeze this in throughout the day, even if you’re super busy. For example, you can
listen to podcasts while:
• Cleaning your room
• Washing the dishes
• Walking your dog
• Commuting to work
• Doing laundry
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Even if you’re not actively listening to every single word, it’s ok. As long as you
understand the majority of the message being delivered.
In this regard, another crucial technique that I teach in my Overcoming the Intermediate
Plateau Course is called “Listen-to-Review.”
It’s incredibly helpful for improving listening comprehension, pronunciation, and

even vocabulary! I’ve been using this technique with Greek in a place one would
least suspect - my shower. Please don’t judge, polyglots will do whatever it takes to
improve their listening capabilities!
Here’s how it works: if I don’t need to wash my hair, I usually put on my airpods and
listen to an old podcast while getting ready for the day. By the time I finish showering
and getting dressed, 15-20 minutes have flown by.
Just be careful not to pair listening to your target language with an activity that
requires your full attention, such as reading a book, conversing with friends,
or performing open heart surgery.
And here is the cool part: the more you spend time with your target language, the
more and more content will be available to review!
To review the most content and therefore maximize your memorization

potential, you should make your listening review activities (whether you resort to the
Listen-to-Review technique or else) a daily habit.
As I have already mentioned, you can easily make this happen by combining the
listening reviews with other habitual daily actions, like making coffee, going for
a jog, and driving to work. By doing this, you will be surprised how easily you’ll be
able to rack up considerable amounts of review time each week.
It’s important to spend at least 15 to 30 minutes every day listening to your target
language, whether you choose to read and listen, delve deeply into a podcast, or
simply listen. However, if you can manage to spend 30, 45, or even 60 minutes, that
would be even better, as the more time you devote, the greater the benefits.
Incorporating active listening as a part of your language learning routine can be

a game changer. Not only will it improve your pronunciation, but it will also enhance
your overall language skills.
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By being attentive and focused when listening to native speakers, you will absorb
more of the language’s natural flow and patterns, which will in turn improve your
reading, writing, and speaking abilities.
So, take the time to actively listen to the language you are learning and watch as
your language skills skyrocket!
In the chapter to come, you will discover what I consider the most counterintuitive
and surprising aspect to learning a second language. Yes, even more-so than any
of the previous lessons.
It has to do with how we learn words, in our native tongue and especially, in a second
language.
Are you ready to abandon old vocabulary learning paradigms, throw conjugation
tables away and get rid of any flashcard app?
If so, I’m eager to show you how in the chapter to come!
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Wrap-up
Lack of listening practice can lead to poor listening skills and pronunciation.
Exposure to natural, spoken language can make all the difference in language
learning.
Our brain is a pattern-building machine that learns more from patterns and
language samples.
To build your “Listening Comprehension Machine”, you need to consider

WHAT to listen to, WHEN to listen, and HOW to listen.
Beginners should focus on material with natural dialogues, accompanying

audio, and a native language translation.
Intermediate learners can start using podcasts, which have real conversations
about everyday life or interesting topics.
Advanced learners can listen to the radio, watch YouTube videos, consume the
news, watch movies, or TV shows.
It’s best to practice listening and reading at the same time or a combination
of the two.
Always consume content that you can understand, and alternate new material
with old material for review.
Pairing listening reviews with low-attention daily activities can help build
a sustainable listening habit.
Ideally, spend at least 15-30 minutes a day listening to your target language.
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ACTION STEP 8
Make sure you start building your Listening Comprehension Machine
by identifying the WHAT, WHEN and HOW (WWH). Pair your listening
activity with a daily habit to increase the likelihood you get your 15-30
minutes in every day. Good luck!
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CHAPTER 9
Don’t Memorize,
Familiarize!
“Memory is a way of telling you what’s important to you.”
— Salman Rushdie
EN ES
native
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A few years ago, I was having a tutoring session with a student of mine.
He was a real “flashcard hero” and loved spending countless hours working
on flashcards to memorize words.
A naturally curious student, he wanted to pull back the curtain on my approach

to learning so many words across a little over a dozen languages.
“How much time do you spend reviewing words?” he asked me point blank.
As if he was having a conversation with Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) from No

Country for Old Men, I replied back to him, completely deadpan, “None.”
He was speechless.
“What do you mean none?!” he asked, dumbfounded.
I grinned ever so slightly and clarified: “If by ‘reviewing words’ you mean sitting
down and sifting through lists of words, using flashcards, apps or this kind of stuff,
then the answer is still ‘none.’”
“But” - I added with a much broader grin of satisfaction - “in a way, I review words
all the time.”
I will show you in a second exactly how I manage to memorize vocabulary in a simple,
fun and efficient way, and without the hassle of making flashcards, using apps or
jotting down endless lists of words.
It will require a shift in mindset, but what hasn’t required that since you first opened
up this book?
Rote Memorization: A Thing of the Past

It’s no secret that to master a foreign language, you need to learn a lot of words. And
I do mean a lot — research has shown that the average native speaker of English, for
example, knows around 20,000 to 35,000 words.
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Even if you’re not aiming for the proficiency of an educated native speaker, you’re
likely still on the hook for learning tens of thousands of words, at the very least. And
that’s no small feat.
Before you start conjuring up formulas for how many words you need to learn divided
by how much time you have in a day or anything like that, take a deep breath, make
sure to exhale fully and relax. As usual, we’re going to learn new words “the smart
way.”
Traditional language classrooms attempt to do this largely through a technique

known as “rote memorization.” This requires the learner to review words over and
over many times, until they can be easily recalled from memory. This review can
take many forms, such as repeatedly writing words down, saying them out loud to
yourself, or using flashcards.
Like many people, I too, used to believe that memorizing words in a foreign language
was simply a matter of repetition.
To add a word to your vocabulary, I thought you had to write it down, review it multiple
times, and even repeat sentences containing that word over and over, until it stuck in
your mind.
That’s how school teaches us the memorization process and most people tend to
believe it. Drill and kill, rinse and repeat ad nauseam.
In my opinion, there are a few major problems with the rote memorization approach:
• It is monotonous and becomes tedious, the opposite of being enjoyable.
• Similar to traditional grammar instruction, it requires you to learn a language

without proper context.
• It may work to some extent, but there are more effective strategies that offer
better results for the same effort.
If you’ve read this far, you know that I’m not a fan of methods that are boring and
ineffective. This is because these approaches separate the language from the real
situations in which you would use it.
And I’m not alone! Just like the grammar strategies I mentioned in an earlier
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chapter, rote memorization is the bane of many language learners’ existence.
It’s like that grumpy neighbor who complains the moment you turn up your TV
volume… Go away, grumpy neighbor! Go away, rote memorization!
A More Efficient Way to Learn Vocabulary

To be successful in learning a language, you need a vocabulary acquisition strategy
that works in the opposite manner. Specifically, it should be effective, enjoyable and
enable you to learn phrases you would encounter in real life.
Fortunately, such a strategy does exist, but it requires you to embrace an idea that
you might find completely outlandish.
Are you ready for it?
To learn words effectively, you need to… stop trying to memorize words!
Sounds crazy? I thought it might. If you want, you can stop right now, take the blue
pill, and go back to rote memorization. I won’t blame you, but I will be disappointed…
slightly. However, if you’re truly daring, you can be the Neo of language learning
and take the red pill, uncovering a brand new way of absorbing as many words as
possible. Naturally.
The human brain is not an empty jar that you can simply open and “fill” with foreign
language vocabulary, whenever and wherever you want. Even if you try to do so
(by using rote memorization), it’s likely your brain will reject the information, and
forget it over the long-term.
Instead, the brain’s long-term memory centers are more like walls of rock alongside
the edge of a river. The force of the water might not be able to cut through the wall right
away, but if the river is given months, years, and decades to work, it will gradually break
through. Imagine the Flintstones' example of a little creek forming the Grand Canyon
over time.
Your brain won’t need quite that long to commit something to memory, but you get
the general idea: the brain absorbs information more passively, based on repeated
exposure over an extended period of time.
If a piece of information comes up again and again in your life (even after you’ve
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occasionally forgotten it), your brain will eventually label this information as
“important,” and store it more strongly in long-term memory.
The cream always rises to the top, right?
Another way to view it is that language operates as a network. The more you are
exposed to your target language, the larger your infrastructure of words, sentences
and associations becomes. So, if you come across completely new words one day,
your language infrastructure will have expanded after a month, making it easier for
those same expressions to stick. This is the power of language and the so-called
‘neuroplasticity’!
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming brand-

new neural connections throughout life. This means that our brains have the abil-
ity to adapt and change in response to different experiences, including language
learning. When you learn new words and phrases, your brain rewires itself to make
stronger and more efficient connections. By consistently exposing yourself to the
target language over time, you take advantage of your brain’s natural ability to
adapt and improve, leading to greater language proficiency.
So, rather than blindly attempting to memorize everything, it’s more effective to
focus on the process of familiarization. By listening to and reading massive amounts
of language content over a long time, the words you need to know and understand
will become increasingly familiar to you.
Each time you see and hear a word you’ve encountered before, your brain will
become a bit more used to the word, and a bit more familiar with how it looks and
how it sounds. Eventually, after seeing the word enough times, you’ll naturally just
know it, without ever having spent deliberate effort to learn it specifically.
You’ve got the big picture.
Now let’s take a look at the most important details of how to maximize your
effectiveness with familiarity.
Repeated Exposure in Context

Those last two words are the most important. Normally, when you review words
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using vocabulary lists and flashcards, you are getting exposure to the word out of
context. In other words, you are seeing the word itself, and not the many situations
and sentences in which you would normally see it appear.
Reviewing words in context is about always seeing the word in its “natural habitat,”
so to speak. If you see it again and again within the right kinds of content, you’ll
memorize it automatically, without having to resort to vocab lists or flashcards.
There are several effective methods for reviewing words in context that don’t rely on
lists or flashcards. To begin, let’s explore a couple of useful techniques.
One such technique is a well-known “acquaintance” we previously discussed in

another chapter - the “Listen-To-Review” technique (refer to Chapter 8). As you
may recall, this technique involves listening to content that has already been ana-
lyzed and understood. It’s excellent for enhancing your listening skills and can also
significantly enhance your vocabulary building through familiarization.
The other technique is about actively re-using words in meaningful conversations.
To do that, you need to engage in something I like to call “Smart Review”.
This is no regular, run-of-the-mill review because, as we know by now, that would

be highly ineffective. "Smart Review", by contrast, is much, much better, and a heck
of a lot more fun.
To review vocabulary in a “smart way,” it’s important to develop a habit of actively

using the words and phrases you’ve learned. This means using them in a way that
involves meaningful communication, rather than just passively reading or writing
them repeatedly.
What do I mean by “meaningful communication”?
I mean using the word, phrase or expression to communicate with another person,
either verbally or in writing.
This sounds harder than it actually is. While you might be imagining having to use
the word perfectly in a live, dynamic, off-the-cuff conversation, you don’t need to
set your sights so high (at least at first).
Even at the early stages of your language learning journey, you can use learned
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words for meaningful communication in simple ways, such as:
• Sending a short text message to a native-speaker friend that contains

a recently-learned expression or two.
Vamos a matar dos pájaros con un tiro. (We’re going to kill two birds with
one stone.)
• Recording a short voice message about a video or podcast you recently found,
and using new vocabulary in your short summary of the content.
In diesem Podcast geht es um einen Polyglot, der eigentlich ein Cyborg ist und
aus der Zukunft kommt! (This podcast is about a polyglot, who is actually
a cyborg and comes from the future!)
• Having a pretend “conversation” with yourself, where you try to verbally summarize
some language material you recently covered.
Je lui ai dit que je l’aimais et elle m’a dit qu’elle était amoureuse d’un autre
homme... qui parle 20 langues! (I told her that I loved her and she told me that
she’s in love with another man… who speaks 20 languages!)
These are all fascinating and sophisticated ways to actively incorporate new
expressions into your language skills, and they are much more effective than the
typical review strategies of simply re-reading, rewriting and repeating the same
old, boring concepts.
And the best part is that they help you interact with native speakers, even as you
review!
This is a fun, useful and very, very powerful way to memorize vocabulary for the
long-term.
In brief, if you want to quickly and significantly enhance your vocabulary do the
following:
1. Expose yourself to comprehensible and interesting content all the time.
2. Resort to the “Listen-to-Review” technique to constantly listen to content you

have already understood.
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3. Create a bridge between input and output, by incorporating interesting words
and phrases in meaningful interactions with native speakers.
Deliberate Vocabulary Building

To close out this chapter, I’d like to discuss two final observations.
First, you may have noticed that by using either the “Listen-to-Review” technique
or the “Smart Review” strategy, you are engaging with your target language in
a meaningful, holistic manner.
Normally, the run-of-the-mill approach is to put emphasis on deliberate vocabulary

building.
Many students often overly emphasize the difficult path to attain fluency by ded-
icating a significant amount of time to intentionally expanding their vocabulary.
They cross their fingers and shut their eyes, hoping to recall the last 50 flashcards
they’ve reviewed and remember how to use those words accurately.
Instead, this approach flips the perspective around by emphasizing the importance
of building vocabulary through exposure and meaningful usage.
Thus, acquiring vocabulary becomes a consequence, rather than the catalyst of

your learning. This paradigm shift can lead to significant changes in your language
learning journey.
Please note that I’m not saying that deliberate vocabulary building activities are
completely useless or incorrect. In fact, they can be quite helpful, and I also use
intentional vocabulary building in my own learning process… but only occasionally!
It’s only a minimal part of my learning activities - doing so very sparingly. It probably
takes up around 5% or less of my total learning time.
In fact, there is a potential danger of becoming excessively obsessed on

vocabulary building to the point where it becomes the main focus of your language
learning efforts.
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This can come at the expense of more important and meaningful activities such
as listening to and reading interesting content, having conversations with native
speakers, and experiencing the language in real-life situations.
If you do choose to use flashcards or other vocabulary-building techniques, treat

them like “dessert” rather than the main course. Prioritize exposure to the language
and meaningful use before focusing on specific vocabulary building.
Furthermore, avoid making one flashcard per word. Instead, try to extract mean-
ingful “chunks of meaning” (short phrases or language fragments) from the
resources you’re using. This way, even while using flashcards, you can still remember
the context in which those language fragments appeared, which can aid you in the
process of familiarizing and memorizing vocabulary.
Remember that the amount of time you can spend on your target language is limited.
Speaking with myself and practicing vocabulary the “cool” way
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Be smart!
You’ve come a long way. You have learned to build a vision, create a sustainable
3-month plan, and habits.
The importance of guiding principles has shown you the way to take responsibility
for your language learning journey.
You’ve learned fun, simple and smart ways to tackle all the moving parts of
a foreign language, be it grammar or vocabulary.
That’s all great, but there is one final factor that can make or break you as an
exceptional language learner.
And that is your mental approach towards learning. No, not just your emotional
connection, but your willingness to remain a learner for life.
If you’re going to take your skills to the next level, I’d like to show you the best way
possible in the chapter ahead!
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Wrap-up
Learning a foreign language requires an expansive vocabulary but traditional
“rote memorization” methods can be boring and ineffective.
Familiarization, rather than memorization, is a more effective way to learn

new vocabulary.
Exposing yourself to comprehensible and interesting content on a regular

basis is the key to familiarizing yourself with new words.
Repeated exposure to words in context is important for retaining them

in your long-term memory.
The “Listen-to-Review” technique and “Smart Review” strategy are both

effective ways to review vocabulary in context.
“Smart Review” involves actively using new words and expressions

in meaningful communication with others.
Deliberate vocabulary-building activities, such as flashcards and vocabulary

lists, can be useful in moderation but should not be the primary focus of
language learning.
When creating flashcards, make sure to extract meaningful phrases or

language fragments to better remember the context in which the vocabulary
appears.
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ACTION STEP 9
Start implementing a natural approach to learning words. Integrate
the Smart Review into your general routine. As you listen to and read
the dialogues in your coursebook, remember to circle and underline
any words that stand out to you as interesting or useful. Try creating
a sentence using that word or phrase and then use it towards out-
put, whether it’s via text message, audio recording or a meaningful
conversation with a friend, language partner or teacher.
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CHAPTER 10
Embrace Change.
Start a Revolution.
“There is one grand lie - that we are limited.
The only limits we have are the limits we believe.”
— Wayne Dyer
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A few months ago, one of our Smart Language Learning Academy students, Francesca,
a native Italian speaker learning Chinese, had a breakthrough moment. Francesca
not only participates in our monthly challenges, but actively posts and shares in
our Circle Community.
Sidenote: Our Circle Community, by the way, is just a fancy name for a platform that
allows each of our members to interact with one another via posts, likes, comments
etc. It’s a thriving and growing community of inspiring and down to earth language
learners!
Going back to Francesca, she felt absolutely compelled to share her revolutionary
shift in mindset with the rest of us.
To provide you with some context, Francesca had appointments with both
a mechanic and a doctor on the same day. Both were native Italian speakers, but
she felt utterly clueless when it came to comprehending their technical babble. In
her Circle post she wrote:
“The doctor and the mechanic are both Italians, like me. They both used a lot of
technical terms I didn’t know, so I just got the essential verbs, some adjectives and
the gist of the talk: fixing my car and fixing my teeth would cost me a small fortune.”
And do you know what really caught her off guard?
She continued:
“This experience seemed to me pretty much like when I’m listening to something in
Chinese outside my Goldilocks Zone… .”
In this context, the “Goldilocks Zone” refers to the range of familiarity or comprehension
that Francesca had with certain contents based on her current level in Chinese.
However, Francesca wasn’t deterred by this odd situation. Instead, she gained some
incredibly valuable wisdom from the unlikely experience.
“That same day after dinner, when I sat in front of my Chinese book full of unfriendly
characters, I asked myself, ‘Why should I struggle to reach fluency in Chinese, when
I’m not even able to have a talk with my dentist here in Italy?’ At that moment I had
a vision of myself in China, dealing with a local mechanic and a dentist too. And
there, out of the blue, I just felt the difference between my mental approach while
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speaking Italian and then in Chinese.”
The difference in her mental approach between her native language (Italian) and
her target language (Chinese) is crucial. Why do we generally put so much pressure
on ourselves to be perfectionists with our target languages when we’re not even
close to being perfect in our native tongues?
However, she didn’t stop there. Francesca went into further detail about her mindset
and the influence it has had on her language learning.
“If I had been in China, I would surely be embarrassed and experience an awkward
feeling about not being able to understand everything they told me. Most likely,
I would even apologize for my language gaps, and I would go home feeling down
because of my daily struggle to speak with the locals.
Instead, here in Italy, I tolerated what the mechanic said just because I’m some-
what of the stereotypical girl who knows little-to-nothing about cars, but I really felt
annoyed with the doctor using too many technical terms. I even snapped at him
and told him, ‘Ma perché non parli come mangi?’ (literally, why don’t you speak the
way you eat? – why don’t you make it simple?).
It never crossed my mind to feel awkward or embarrassed as a result of not

understanding the doctor and the mechanic. That’s when I paused and asked
myself why…
The answer arrived immediately. It’s because of my level of confidence in my na-

tive language.
I feel so at ease that I would never focus on my insecurities in Italian. If there is

something I don’t know, I just ask for clarification, or I take a brief glance in the
dictionary. I definitely wouldn’t feel embarrassed whatsoever.
So, that’s the point, in my opinion, about struggling to reach fluency in a foreign
language; most of it is due to a lack of self-esteem while dealing with others, espe-
cially if they are native speakers; I think it’s a kind of inferiority complex that makes
it harder for us to express ourselves in the best way.”
I am astonished by Francesca’s realization and her ability to express it so clearly.

Many language learners never figure out this lesson and as a result, they give up on
language learning altogether or they stay “stuck in the mud.” They make excuses
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for themselves, listing reasons why they’re not making progress such as “I’m not
naturally talented,” “It’s too different from my native language,” “It’ll take decades!”
etc., but they never reflect upon their mindset or their attitude towards learning.
To quote brain coach and memory guru, Jim Kwik, “If our mindset is not aligned
with our desires or goals, we will never achieve them.”
Our thoughts can hold us back from ever achieving any success in a language.
That’s why we need to take a look in the mirror and assess our own beliefs, values
and principles.
Instead of asking yourself whether or not you can do something (become fluent),
ask yourself HOW you can accomplish your goal.
Occasionally, we all need a check up from the neck up, because we should never let
someone else’s expectations define our realities. You’re meant for so much more,
and just like Francesca, once your mindset shifts into that of a smart language
learner, you have the potential of becoming unstoppable.
Francesca’s post is one of the most popular in our community and it sparked
a wave of revelations from other users.
Cassandra from the U.S. also acknowledged the mental and emotional toll learning
a language can take on people. She said:
“I feel so many emotions. It is very hard to be comfortable with where I am, as

you said. First, because I lack confidence and blame myself first almost always.
I worry that I haven’t studied hard enough or used the right techniques or that I am
inefficient. Second, I worry that I will never reach the level of fluency and literacy that
I want. Third, I reassure myself that this is all normal and I am fine. Fourth, repeat it
all over again.”
Luca from Italy, who had lived in Japan for a decade, was hired as an impromptu
interpreter for a crucial meeting between two metalworking firms, one Italian, and
the other Japanese. However, he was confronted with an unexpected instance of
“technical babble” during the meeting. In his post, as a response to Francesca’s, he
recounts his experience and explains:
“A big issue arose during the meeting when the Italian team began discussing
technical details of products, such as parts for excavation machines. They used
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a plethora of acronyms, machine part terms, and processing methods. At that
moment, I found myself speechless, unable to comprehend their Italian discus-
sion (even though it’s my native language) or convey it in Japanese, leaving the
Japanese guests without translation assistance.
In my embarrassment, this situation persisted for about an hour. I apologized to

the Japanese guests, explaining that this part of the meeting was unexpected and
I hadn’t been informed of the topics. I also had to apologize to the Italian team, who
questioned why I hadn’t provided simultaneous translation during their discussion.
Shifting from my initial embarrassment at seeming incompetent, I mustered the

courage to explain that simultaneous interpretation requires extensive preparation,
which was impossible in this case due to the highly technical language and my
unfamiliarity with the field.
In the end, they apologized and even recognized the importance of interpreters
first preparing in their native language on the specific field’s terminology before
transferring it to the target language.”
Aleks from Serbia had the opportunity to meet the prime minister of his homeland
and along with that came a speech that would be aired on national TV. Needless to
say, he also experienced a shift in mindset as well.
“When we came back to Serbia last year, I had an opportunity to meet the prime
minister and give a speech to the media... which would be shown on every major
channel in Serbia. My Serbian is fluent, but it’s not at the technical level where
I could debate politics or use high-level academic terminology - especially on TV!
I felt so insecure about this upcoming speech that I had my wife write a generic
speech for me. However, about a day before the event, I trusted my gut and said
to myself, ‘No! Use some of this speech, but be yourself and speak from the heart.’
Well, my Serbian wasn’t perfect but the speech was poignant and it earned me lots
of praise. At the end of the day, I trusted myself and went for content over form.”
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The Importance of Mindset in Language Learning
The stories of realization that I shared with you so far are all very enlightening.
Bruce Lee once said, “To express oneself honestly, not lying to oneself. That, my
friend, is very hard to do.”
It’s difficult enough to “be yourself” in your native language, so imagine trying to do
the same in a foreign language. It’s a challenge, but it’s what sets the best apart
from the rest. As language learning is constantly evolving, we all need to shift our
mindsets from time to time. There’s no “on-off” switch when it comes to our mental-
ities or learning - it’s a daily struggle to improve upon yesterday’s progress. These
people have realized that progress is more important than perfection.
These breakthrough moments (and many more) made a huge difference in the
way I and countless students have improved, adapted, and refined our language
learning strategies.
But not in terms of just “language strategies.” They brought about a major change
in terms of language learning mindset. Here is a profound truth about building any
skill, expertise - and facing any experience in life:
You can train for skill, but you can’t train for mindset.
Think about all the information that is at your fingertips, waiting to be accessed.
Do you want to learn to code? Hire a teacher, get a book and a course about coding
and then… get to it!
Do you want to learn the “ultimate techniques from a language expert”? Hire a lan-
guage coach, watch videos by expert learners, or go through one of their courses.
You get the idea.
You will learn a lot of valuable technical things - you will definitely improve your
ability to learn - but you might still hold the same limiting beliefs about language
learning, and that is going to stifle your growth big time.
In fact, there is one thing that sets apart successful and mediocre language learners:
their mental approach to learning a foreign language.
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In this context, I categorize two types of mindsets (taken from renowned psychologist
Carol Dweck of Stanford University): a fixed mindset for language learning and a
growth mindset for language learning.
Just like Francesca, myself and many others, you harbor a few limiting beliefs if you
have a fixed mindset. Here are some of the most commonly held limiting beliefs
among language learners.
It’s time to debunk them!
Limiting Belief #1: “You must have talent to learn a language

(and I don’t)!”
I have heard this one more often than I’ve heard the people in Rome greet each
other with “Ciao!” How can we possibly know we’re bad at something if we don’t
try it? You might retort that you have tried it and failed. Perhaps you’ve even failed
miserably. But that’s precisely where your mindset makes all the difference.
A person with a fixed language mindset thinks that since they’re “not naturally skilled
at it,” they will never learn any decent degree of fluency. They overemphasize their
inability to learn in the past or at school and the thought of this failure reinforces
their limiting beliefs.
The straight answer is: anybody can learn a foreign language.
The fact that you haven’t learned one wasn’t determined at your birth. It was due
to a combination of inefficient methods and a wrong mental approach to learning.
There are countless people on this planet who have successfully learned a bunch
of languages and they have no more talent or intelligence than you do.
I’ve never met a person incapable of learning a language, only people who refuse
to try something different. Mindsets can be changed, and with a growth mindset,
anyone can learn a foreign language to fluency and beyond.
The thing about this statement — like most fixed mindset affirmations — is that it
stems from fear. A person who has a growth language mindset would flip things
around by saying: “I may not be good now, but if I put in the work and approach
this the right way, I can become a great language learner soon!”
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Me in The New York Times? Life is beautiful (and a miracle)
Limiting Belief #2: “I can’t learn now; it’s too late.”

It is never, I repeat, never too late to become a great language learner. To be honest,
learning a language is for life and that’s not even having a growth mindset, that’s
just “keeping it real.”
As the old saying goes, “The day we stop learning is the day we stop living.”
Neuroscience has proven that the brain is extremely plastic throughout your entire
life. You can learn any language at any age.
Limiting Belief #3: “There’s no point in trying to learn if I’m

going to fail.”
True, you might fail. You might fail learning a language multiple times. You might fail
so spectacularly that it stupefies you and leaves you wondering if it is even worth
continuing.
Page 125
We are dealing with fear itself, rearing its ugly head and laughing at our efforts with
utter disdain. But every failure we face is an opportunity to look at the situation in
a whole new light.
So the question is, what can you learn from failing to learn Italian, Spanish, French
or Chinese? If you start considering every mistake and failure as a chance to learn,
then you can use your shortcomings as chances to grow and improve yourself.
Limiting Belief #4: “I feel threatened or intimidated by the

success of others.”
I am sure you have already watched some “polyglots” on YouTube and felt as if
they were leagues beyond your wildest imagination. “Oh my God, I will never speak
languages like this individual.” We often see other people’s success as a threat
to ourselves. You take it personally. You think, “I won’t ever be able to do what this
person does. It will take me an eternity.”
But why are we so deterred by the possibilities others have shown us? If anything,
it should be the other way around. We should be celebrating. Why? Because more
often than not, these sensational stories are all about people just like us — average,
everyday, ordinary folks who knew what they wanted and weren’t willing to stop
until they got it.
This serves to remind us that such potential is an inherently human trait and some-
thing that is accessible to all of us, rather than a chosen few.
So, every time you see a successful language learner, instead of feeling threatened,
intimated or disheartened, ask yourself the following questions:
• What is something that I admire about this person?
• What is he/she doing right so that I can do the same?
• What can I do to become even better than them?
Transform your internal monologue to: “When I see others succeed in learning a
foreign language, it inspires me to believe that I can do it, too. What actions did
Page 126
these individuals take that led to their success and how can I apply what they’ve
done for myself?”
Now, that is a growth mindset for language learning.
How to (Actually) Shift Your Mindset!

If you’ve gotten to this point, I’m sure you’re thinking, “Yeah, what he says makes
sense, but I still don’t really believe it or find it practical.”
And you know what?
That’s perfectly fine. I would have the same reaction.
As creatures of habit and examples, most of us require first-hand experience to be-

lieve something to be true. Otherwise, it can seem like just another empty promise
someone is trying to convince us of. However, I would argue that individuals with
fixed mindsets are akin to chained elephants.
No disrespect to elephants, or chains for that matter, but it goes something like this.
After years of being chained to a pole in a circus, an elephant suddenly found itself
free. However, it didn’t run away or attempt to escape.
It was not even aware of the fact that it could escape, because it was not only the
physical chain that held it back, but also its own thoughts. The elephant didn’t feel
free in its mind, so it wasn’t free to move even without restraints. We have a seemingly
endless supply of mental shackles that hold us back, in both language learning
and our personal lives.
If you don’t believe you are capable of learning a language, then you are like that
elephant. No shame in that, we all have been, at one time or another.
Now, let’s address what I refer to as “the elephant in the room,” or, in this case, “the
elephant in our minds.” As powerful as the human brain is, it can also be quite
gullible. If you repeat a thought or idea to yourself frequently enough, your brain will
eventually accept it as true.
You, like the elephant, have enormous potential, and the freedom to develop it
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as much as you wish. However, you may have strong beliefs and misconceptions
about the language learning process that prevent you from seeing your own
potential clearly.
All of this can be traced back to your childhood and teenage years. When a young
and impressionable brain is repeatedly exposed to certain notions or ideas, those
insidious “seeds” can take root and become an unconscious “truth” for that brain.
Unfortunately, a harmful or limiting idea can also become ingrained in that same
brain. It’s not your fault, or anyone else’s, for being surrounded by particular beliefs
during your upbringing.
As I mentioned before, it’s important for you to realize that someone else’s opinion of
us doesn’t have to define our reality. Regardless of what you’ve been told by some-
one else in the past (whether it’s a teacher, family member, or classmate), you have
the ability to transform your beliefs about yourself and language learning to ones
that give you strength and motivation, rather than limit you.
Admittedly, it’s much easier said than done. In fact, the logical part of our brain
unquestionably trusts the emotional part, where all our childhood-based limited
beliefs are stored, and those emotional beliefs eventually become our mental
framework.
Your mind will always work to make sure your mental beliefs are consistent with the
non-verbal, emotional beliefs you have internalized as a young child.
It is difficult to accept that you have been wrong about something for so long.
Let’s take a practical look at how this plays out with language learning.
Previously, you received advice from me that suggests you should learn grammar
from language, rather than the other way around. Your emotional mind may
immediately object and tell your rational mind that this is not the proper way of
doing things. It might argue that you need to first understand grammar before you
can truly understand the language.
This way of thinking is natural, as it is what you were taught in school. However, it
is important to remember that this is not your fault; it is simply the way you have
learned to approach grammar.
Changing your mindset and adopting a new way of thinking is no easy feat.
Page 128
But here is the thing. Your emotional and thinking mind start aligning when you “see
it for yourself.”
Here is the fastest way to change your mindset.
Take action!
Don’t wait, don’t think too much.
Try new things. Get out of your comfort zone. Test your beliefs.
One big lesson I have learned from my life - not only in language learning - is this:
Thinking creates anxiety, action cures it.
When you run into something that makes you nervous or anxious, thinking about it
only creates more erratic thoughts. On the other hand, if you stop overthinking and
simply take action you can test reality and receive valuable feedback.
You might not always like it, but you’ll be all the better for it.
As a reminder to act rather than endlessly contemplate, I have this quote stickied
next to my laptop: “To change and believe, you have to live and breathe.”
When you take action and actually get to doing something different, your precon-
ceived ideas will melt away like snow in the sun. You have nothing to lose in trying
a new approach and seeing whether or not it works for you.
If after a few weeks and months nothing has changed, you can come back and
throw some (virtual) tomatoes at me. However, I am quite confident that you will
be pleasantly surprised by what you can accomplish if you give this new approach
a try.
So read on, and get ready for a revolution.
Embrace a Language Learning Revolution!

Now that you understand the importance of changing your mindset when it comes
to language learning, it’s time to embrace a revolution in the way you approach
Page 129
learning a new language. This means letting go of old beliefs and adopting new,
more effective methods.
Remember that learning a language is not solely about memorizing dry grammar
rules or vocabulary. It’s about immersing yourself in the language, having fun while
you learn, practicing it, and yes...it also involves making mistakes along the way.
Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.
Embracing this revolution in language learning will allow you to take control of your
learning journey.
Keep in mind that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to language learning. By

trying new things and keeping an open mind, you will undoubtedly discover the
path to fluency that suits you best.
You have seen each of the 10 rules now, and I can’t wait for you to start applying
them!
But before I let you go, I wanted to share a few final words with you.
Page 130
Wrap-up
The biggest obstacle to language learning is often our own mindset.
A fixed mindset leads to an unwavering and limiting belief in our ability to learn
a language.
A growth mindset, on the other hand, allows us to accept challenges and view
mistakes as opportunities for growth.
Common misconceptions about language learning include beliefs such as

that it’s too difficult or that we are too old to learn, etc.
Many of us are like “chained elephants,” held back by mental chains and
limiting beliefs.
Changing our mindset requires taking action, trying new things and stepping
out of our comfort zone.
Embracing a revolution in language learning means abandoning old beliefs

and adopting new and more effective methods.
Learning a language means immersing yourself in the language, having fun,

practicing and learning from your mistakes and failures.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to language learning, but by keeping an

open mind and trying new things, you will find your way to fluency that suits
you.
ACTION STEP 10
Make a list of the limiting beliefs and fears you hold about yourself
and language learning. Reflect upon this as you apply all the rules of
this book and review them every month. If you jump to action, you will
experience a language learning revolution sooner than you think!
Page 131
Conclusion
“Nobody can teach you a language, you can only learn it by yourself.”
This quote is my philosophy when it comes to language learning. It means a lot to

me for a couple of important reasons.
First of all, it’s a quote that came to me spontaneously in the midst of an interview
on national Italian radio. It’s as if in that moment, the universe conveyed a mes-
sage through me. I didn’t think of it beforehand, never wrote it down, but it came
to me much like random revelations come to most people while they’re taking
a shower or going for a walk.
However, this quote actually meant a lot more to me because of my father. When
I came back home, he sat me down, looked me in the eyes and told me how much
that sentence had resonated with him while listening to my interview. Even if he had
said nothing at all, the gaze in his eyes had caused my heart to swell with pride,
joy, appreciation and above all - love. During that unexpected chat, my father had
finally acknowledged my polyglot journey as one that was worthwhile.
Not that I needed my father’s validation, but it was still a significant moment in our
relationship. You see, my father was a mathematician and he wanted his son to
follow in his footsteps. No matter how native-like my American accent made me
sound nor how fluently I spoke any other language, he wanted Luca Lampariello to
work with numbers and not with words.
For me, it’s not about dedicating my entire life to learning as many languages as
possible. Rather, it’s about learning languages to live a better life. Many of you will
ask how I choose which languages to learn but the truth is that the languages
always choose me. They beckon and I come running with arms wide open, ready
for the embrace that lasts a lifetime.
Even though it took 10 languages to finally earn my father’s support, the point is,
I never specifically aimed for that. I learned languages, because doing so allowed
me to reinvent myself over and over again. Believe it or not, there are slight differences
Page 132
between “Italian Luca” and “American Luca,” “French Luca” and “Polish Luca,” etc.
And whatever happened along the way, such as my father’s revelation, was a bonus.
I never expected it nor was I counting on it. I just wanted the Luca of today to be
a better person than the Luca of yesterday.
And guess what? By doing exactly that, I eventually created the Smart Language
Learning Academy and now I can help you reach your own goals, albeit in a faster
and even more efficient manner than three decades (fingers crossed).
Learning How to Learn “the Smart Way”

Learning how to learn a language is a powerful, personal-growth machine. In fact,
it is the ultimate super power. Not only will the principles in this book help you learn
any foreign language more efficiently, they will grow you as a person, much like
they did for me.
Figuring out how to learn is not like any traditional method you’ve seen, where you
have to sit, follow your teacher’s instruction, knock on wood and hope for the best.
“Smart language learning” not only challenges, but it also changes you!
It gets you out of your comfort zone.
It helps you face your fears and provides a roadmap for becoming a more confi-
dent, self-aware language learner.
The principles I laid out in this book and the skills I teach at the Smart Language
Learning Academy have resulted directly from my 30+ year experience of learning,
coaching and living my life successfully through second language acquisition.
My worldview has forever changed. Yours can, too. Following the principles and
guidelines I’ve laid out in this book, I’m sure you’ll discover a new version of yourself
along the way.
Embrace it. Be the spark that sets your life on a different path.
I’ve learned a lot of languages, had a lifetime’s worth of unbelievable experiences and
most of all, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some absolutely amazing human beings.
Page 133
And as a result, it has changed me in ways I could have never imagined.
You can go through the same transformation.
Take chances. Think outside of the box. Heck, tinker with the box!
Test and experiment for yourself. Go off the main road and come back to it after
a few educational sidequests. Don’t fear “perfection,” because it doesn’t exist!
And above all - have fun!
I leave you with this parting advice:
It’s a work in progress, even when you think it’s not,
Go easy on yourself, you’re all you’ve got,
Let go of comparisons, attachments, outcomes and expectations,
You can go fast, but never hurry. Stay patient.
It’s not a competition or some sort of tourney,
Good luck with your language learning journey!
Luca Lampariello
Acknowledgements
This book has been, literally, a labor of love, and I am indebted to the incredible
individuals who have been by my side throughout this extraordinary journey. Their
unwavering support, unique talents, and inspiring personalities have shaped this
book as well as my perspective on life, learning, the power of the mind and above
all, the triumph of human connection.
First of all, a huge thanks to my incredible family, whose unwavering belief in me

has fueled my passion for knowledge and shaped the person I am today. I am
Page 134
forever grateful for their profound influence and the invaluable lessons they have
imparted upon me.
To my dear mother: you have been my brightest light, guiding and fostering my
thirst for knowledge from the very beginning. Your unwavering support and your
willingness to nurture my unquenchable thirst for knowledge has played a major
role in my development as a person and a language learner. You embody beauty
and generosity. Your belief in me has been a never ending source of inspiration.
I will keep your radiant smile with me for the rest of my days. Grazie di tutto.
To my father: thank you for instilling in me the values of rigor and discipline. Your
guidance and steadfast commitment to understanding the world have unleashed
my desire to explore, question, and seek the deeper meaning of everything around
me. You have taught me the importance of perseverance, and pushed me to
discover the unimaginable, untapped potential of the human mind.
To my beloved grandmother: a single moment in time was all it took for you to ignite
a spark within me. That fateful summer day when I was 10, you introduced me to
the wonders of ancient and modern languages, mathematics, astronomy, and the
boundless possibilities of life. Your influence has shaped my intellectual curiosity
and has been the foundation upon which I continue to build my knowledge.
To my remarkable family as a whole: my deepest gratitude goes out to you. You

have nurtured and supported me throughout this incredible journey of knowledge
and self-discovery. This book is a testament to your love, guidance, and unwavering
belief. Thank you for making me the person I am today.
And then to my extraordinary team.
Aleks: you are a force of nature, brimming with wit, intelligence, and boundless
enthusiasm. Your ideas have sparked countless creative breakthroughs, and your
poetic recitations, movie quotes, and your boundless optimism always add a touch
of magic to our discussions and to everything you work on. You are the language
wizard I was waiting for.
To Berta: thank you for your unwavering dedication and expertise. From your excep-
tional work on the blog to your technical prowess on our website, you have been
instrumental in the growth of our company. Our lengthy phone conversations about
work, life and language learning have been, and still are, enlightening and cherished
moments.
Page 135
A special mention goes to Luca Toma, a dear friend and colleague who serendipi-
tously entered my life after stumbling upon my first YouTube video: your first visit to
Paris, your boundless knowledge about language learning, your kindness and your
eagerness to learn via my method. You were the catalyst for the famous scheme of
my language learning method, and in turn, the development of our courses. I firmly
believe that fate brought us together, and I am grateful for your role in shaping this
journey. As you often say, “Everything is perfect and nothing happens by chance”.
And then there’s Kevin, my first writer and trusted ally: your exceptional writing skills
have breathed life into our vision, and the hours we spent visualizing and planning
the company’s growth will always be cherished. You have played a pivotal role in
bringing us to where we are today.
Andrei, my analytical genius: your objective, rigorous and smart approach to words
and numbers have been invaluable to our team. Your passion for language learn-
ing, understanding and teaching resonates deeply, and your insights have shaped
our educational platform in profound ways. Thank you for bringing your expertise
and passion to the table, and for your unwavering commitment to helping people
around the world.
To Gosia, my friend and confidante, words cannot express the depth of my grati-
tude for your presence in my life: your easy going nature, sweetness, and boundless
generosity are a constant source of inspiration. Your artistic spirit brings a touch of
optimism and beauty to everything you create. Your creative mind has transformed
our expectations into reality - a very beautiful reality! Thank you for sharing your time,
attention, and incredible talent with me and the world.
Y’all impress the heck out of me and if it weren’t for you, none of this would have
been possible.
In addition to my family and team, I would like to extend my gratitude to all those
who have supported and believed in me along the way. Your encouragement and
unlimited belief in my vision have fueled my determination and inspired me to bring
this book to fruition.
To each person who has played a part, whether big or small, in this adventure we
call life, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your presence, insights, and
contributions have shaped not only the pages of this book but also my personal
and professional growth.
Page 136
Grazie, Thank You, Merci, Dankeschön, Gracias, Bedankt, Vi tackar, Dziękuję,
Obrigado, köszönöm!
Please leave a review and spread the word

Thank you for reading 10 Essential Rules for Smart Language Learning. If you think
that other language learners can benefit from this book, please spread the word
with family, friends and acquaintances, post your experience and leave a review on
social media and online forums. Any language learner in need is a friend, indeed.
About the Author

Luca Lampariello is an expert language learner from Rome, Italy, and founder of the
Smart Language Learning Academy. Currently, he speaks fifteen languages, ten of
which are at a fluent level. Since 2008, he has shared his language learning techniques
and methods via his personal YouTube channel and his website LucaLampariello.
com. Luca has also spent the last twelve years working independently as a language
coach and building courses on how to learn foreign languages, helping hundreds of
thousands of language learners achieve their goals. Altogether, his teachings have
attracted hundreds of thousands of followers, and inspired people from all around
the world to become proficient in foreign languages.
Page 137
About the Smart Language
Learning Academy
Founded by noted polyglot Luca Lampariello, the Smart Language Learning Academy
is an online platform dedicated to helping language learners reach their full potential
in any—or as many—languages as they want. This is done through the sharing of Luca’s
tried and tested learning methods, developed over decades of learning and teaching
foreign languages. Those who wish to learn from the Academy can do so through
enrolling in online courses, reading blog posts, articles, and guides, participating
in expert webinars, and signing up to receive one-on-one language coaching
sessions from coaches trained in Luca’s methods. If you’re interested in learning
more about the Academy, feel free to visit https://www.lucalampariello.com
Bibliography
Note: In the digital age, language learners are blessed with an incredible amount of
resources, videos, articles, courses, apps, and platforms. However, as we addressed
in Chapter 4, this “paradox of choice” can overwhelm and confuse. To address
this, I curated a concise bibliography. It features select links to my own videos and
articles, along with references to impactful books (which I have read and highly
recommend).
Wishing you a rewarding and enriching language learning journey!
Chapter 1: Start with Why

7 Incredibly Useful Benefits of Learning a New Language (Video)
7 Incredibly Useful Benefits of Learning a New Language (Article)
Page 138
How to stay Motivated when Learning a New Language – Visualize and Connect
(Article) (Article )
How to Stay Motivated to Learn a New Language - Visualize and Connect (Video)
Chapter 2: Set Smart Learning Goals

The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months
How to Hit Your 2023 Language Learning Goals (in 6 Simple Steps) (Video)
How to Hit Your 2023 Language Learning Goals (in 6 Simple Steps) (Article)
Chapter 3: Create Strong Daily Habits

10 Language Learning Habits of a Hyperpolyglot (Video)
10 Things I Always Do When I Start Learning a New Language (article)
3 Simple Steps to Prepare for a Highly Rewarding Language Learning Session (Videos)
Best 3 Steps To Get Ready for a Kick-Ass Language Learning Session (article)
James Clear Website: https://jamesclear.com/ (Website)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones (Book)
Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything (Book)
Chapter 4: Build Your Learning Input Machine

How to Learn a New Language: Start with the Right Resources (Video)
How to Learn a New Language: Start with the Right Resources (Article)
Page 139
Chapter 5: Let your Principles Guide your Learning
The Absolute Best Way to Learn a Language (Video)
The Only True Way to Learn a Language (Article)
Chapter 6: Make Input Your Top Priority

How to Use YouTube to Learn a New Language (Video)
How I Use YouTube to Learn Foreign Languages (Article)
Effortless Language Learning: Myth or Reality? (Video)
Cracking the Comprehensible Input Code (Article)
Chapter 7: Build Your Smart Grammar Machine

How I learn languages - Lomb Kató (Amazon.com)
How to Learn Grammar Like a Pro Even if You Hate It (Video)
How to Learn Grammar Like a Pro Even If You Hate It (Article)
How to Learn Grammar: The Only Method You'll Ever Need (Video)
The Absolute Best Way to Learn Grammar (No Matter Your Target Language) (Article)
Chapter 8: Build your Listening Comprehension Machine

10 Amazing Ways to Improve Your Listening Comprehension (Video)
10 Incredible Ways to Improve Your Listening Comprehension (Article)
7 Ridiculously Simple Tips to Improve Your Listening Comprehension in Record

Time (Video)
Page 140
7 Tips to Improve Your Listening Comprehension (That Never Fail) (Article)
Chapter 9: Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!

7 Insanely Effective Techniques to Memorize Vocabulary in a New Language (Video)
How to Memorize Vocabulary in a Foreign Language with These 7 Insanely Effective

Techniques (Article)
3 Amazing Ways to Memorize Vocabulary Without Flashcards (Video)
3 Easy Ways to Learn New Words Without Flashcards (Article)
How to Memorize New Vocabulary: The Techniques Every Learner MUST Know (Right
From The Start) (Video)
How To Learn Words Quickly And Effectively In Any Language (Article)
Chapter 10: Embrace Change. Start a Revolution

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
If you want to know more about other books and resources I read, here is my
Amazon Shop: https://www.amazon.com/shop/lucalampariello
Page 141

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Page 1

Dedicated to my mom, dad and grandmother,

Copyright © 2023 Smart Language Learning Academy. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever

Rule 1: Start with Why ..................................................................................................................................... 12

Rule 2: Set Smart Learning Goals ......................................................................................................... 22

Rule 3: Create Strong Daily Habits ..................................................................................................... 34

Rule 4: Build Your Learning Input Machine.................................................................................... 48

Rule 5: Let Your Principles Guide Your Learning.......................................................................... 57

Rule 6: Make Input Your Top Priority................................................................................................... 69

Rule 7: Build Your Smart Grammar Machine................................................................................ 80

Rule 8: Build Your Listening Comprehension Machine......................................................... 92

Rule 9: Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!.................................................................................................. 106

Rule 10: Embrace Change, Start a Revolution.............................................................................. 118

About the Author............................................................................................................................................ 137

About the Smart Language Learning Academy...................................................................... 138

• And so on, and so forth.

Yup, been there and done that.

But here is the thing.

1. Learning a language is achievable by anyone.

2. Most people make it more complicated than it needs to be.

3. Success hinges on your mindset.

Here are some common things I hear all the time:

• I don’t have the talent to learn languages.

• I have tried it before and I could not learn, I am helpless.

• I don’t have time to practice.

• I easily lose focus when studying.

Because they let you off the hook.

This is what this book is about.

How I Went from a Language Failure to a Language Master

By all accounts, I’m just a normal Italian guy.

Come to think of it, though, that’s not really a superpower.

Far from it.

Most consider me a superhero when it comes to languages, but you’d be surprised

I never set out to become a polyglot. My path was meant to be in engineering,

Again, it’s their problem, not yours.

In fact, traditional language learning methods mostly focus on acquiring knowledge,

It is about learning how to read, listen, speak and write.

You don’t need more instructions and explanations.

You need principles and practice. Lots of practice!

My passion lies in educating, enabling, and empowering your desire to learn

What to Expect From this Book

1. Start With Why

2. Set Smart Learning Goals

3. Create Strong Daily Habits

4. Build Your Learning Input Machine

6. Make Input Your Top Priority

7. Build Your Smart Grammar Machine

8. Build Your Listening Comprehension Machine

9. Don’t Memorize, Familiarize!

10. Embrace Change. Start a Revolution!

These rules are backed by over 30 years of experience in learning, experimentation,

A language learning revolution.

Let’s delve into it!

The distinction between knowledge and skills is fundamental to effective

The 10 rules are:

1. Start With Why

2. Set Smart Learning Goals