Hi, lovely learners!
Of course I’m advocating for English here—that’s no secret! But more importantly, this article is for you: my dedicated students across the globe who are navigating the journey toward fluency in academic and business English. You understand the opportunities it opens and the obstacles you face better than I ever could. I carry your struggles and aspirations with me, and that’s why I want to share this essential truth: “Meet the language where you are right now, not where you imagine you should be.”
I’m a little reluctant to use the term “unrealistic goals” because it suggests your aspirations are too big or unachievable—and I don’t believe in impossibilities. What we call “unrealistic goals” are often just misaligned with your current availability, resources, or level of focus and persistence. Your present reality might make a goal temporarily unrealistic, but never impossible.
Question: How do we overcome “unrealistic” language goals? Where do we start?
Answer: Let your language goals reflect your physical and emotional reality. You can’t escape these two factors, and you shouldn’t fake them if you want to get the most from your learning.
Let your language goals reflect your physical and emotional reality
Countless studies confirm what we instinctively know: our emotions and physical environments are deeply connected to what and how we learn. Your learning journey is emotional, so why pretend otherwise? Are you anxious about something? Carrying feelings that won’t go away? Upset or excited about work, life, or family? Nervous about a presentation, exam, or meeting new clients? Meet the language where you are!
I once worked with a student who had been digitally defrauded. We spent our session learning the exact vocabulary and expressions he needed to file formal complaints at the bank and police station. That’s real learning—immediate, relevant, and deeply personal.
A language syllabus means nothing if it doesn’t reflect your actual life, emotions, and language needs. So get REAL with your learning!
