We want all of our language enthusiast to  embody for a weekend this popular Japanese proverb.  Challenge yourself by using your language of study as often as possible and significantly limit the use of your natural language.   We know you're probably wondering "How the heck are we supposed to do that?"  Well we're happy to help!  Our TV and radio stations are filled with foreign language programs. We have Korean news, Spanish soap operas and middle eastern music. Depending on your language of study, you have an entire community dedicated to expanding its culture.  We want you to think outside the box by visiting different religious ceremonies where they worship in their native tongue.  It's good to hear casual conversation in your language of study but think of the insight you could gain by hearing  it in a concentrated context. Check out international films, live plays and other independent performances going on in your area. End your weekend of cultural exploration by dining at your favorite foreign restaurant and of course ordering in your target language. Not only will it be fun but it will be challenging and eye opening to experience life outside your normal routine. Remember to not get discouraged as you go through this task. This is a learning experience and you will make mistakes. Always look at them as learning opportunities.

Before you Begin: Prepare for Success!

Organization is key to  pulling off this type of task so be sure you prep yourself by creating an itinerary of where you want to go and what you want to do. Locate any foreign film festivals, museum exhibits and restaurants ahead of time.  If you know how to read the language you're studying like Spanish or French you'll want to have a dictionary/ thesaurus handy. A phrase book is suggested too just in case you want to strike up a conversation but need a little assistance with it. 

Cram Session: Remember to Review.

Cram sessions are a great way to refresh already learned material. Prep yourself by doing a  flash review of your Pimsleur lessons. Depending on the of fluency with your language you can review an entire level or just a few lessons within the level. Make sure it is only the material you've already covered. You do not want to  introduce any new material into your cram sessions since you need to dedicate more time and energy into them.  If you feel like you want to advance a little more in your lessons before doing this task that's okay. Preparation is key to having a successful experience 

Start Small

We know many of you are new to language learning and education. You probably never thought about it much so when you're challenged to take yourself out of your comfort zone you may feel a little lost because you're not quite sure where to start. That is why we'll always encourage you to start small. If I were going to a German breakfast buffet I would say "Guten Morgen!" to everyone I saw. I would make a point to say "Danke!" every time a waiter or waitress assisted me. Make sure you are relaxed and well rested when doing this exercise. No doubt at times it can become intense and stressful. Usually when frustration gets the best of us we stutter and stumble over our words. All you have to do is keep a cool head and an open mind. Trust in yourself that you can do this! 

Be brave: Say it with a Smile!

People often take for granted the price of a smile and it's ironic because smiling is still as free as the air.  So why don't we do it more often? When you greet someone do it with a smile because all people understand this gesture no matter what part of the globe they're from. Another key point to remember- If you're having a hard time... don't show it. If you look uncomfortable and uneasy people may treat you would be more comfortable if they spoke to you in English. If that happens you haven't accomplished what you set out to do.  Try to remain comfortable and confident when conversing with native speakers because usually they are happy to see you put in the effort. Many times they will extend the offer to teach you a few things about their native language.