‘Lost in Translation’ is a new series of blog posts that describes my language learning journey. One language, 365 days to learn it.

Working for a translation company, I am lucky enough to meet people who speak many of the world’s most wonderful languages. Sadly, I am not able to speak another language myself. Sat in my corner of the office, I often find myself switched on to the foreign conversations surrounding me, but frustratingly, I am never quite able to tune in. This does not worry me so much, as my role in the company does not require me to speak a foreign language, only connect with foreign language speakers and those who require their services using the global language of online marketing and social media. However, I can certainly say that learning another language has long been an ambition of mine. Starting in school, I always felt a fondness towards French lessons, and for whatever reason, I found it easier to grasp words, sentences and even whole conversations in French, than the intricacies of maths or science in my own language.

Never a fan of new year’s resolutions, I resisted the urge to try and learn again in January. Now in March, the quest to conquer a foreign language has entered my thoughts again. So here is the plan. Starting today, I will try to master a foreign language in 365 days using whatever means possible. From traditional techniques such as translation dictionaries and tapes to the more technologically advanced alternatives such as apps and podcasts, I will give a complete and honest account of my experiences. Using this blog, I will share with you my journey from beginning to end, and I hope that you will return the favour and share with me any helpful hints or tips along the way. As I become more confident with my speaking skills, I will begin to record my updates on video and upload them to YouTube for your viewing pleasure.

I will post an update on the blog every Wednesday, but to keep up to date with my language learning journey in your inbox, go ahead and subscribe using the link above. Or, if you are kind enough to follow us on Twitter, you will receive day-to-day updates and be able to talk to me one to one about my mission.

Come back next week to find out which language I have decided to learn, and where I will begin. See you then!