5 Myths that keep people from tackling Spanish

If you’ve ever wanted to learn Spanish but felt held back, chances are it wasn’t because of a lack of interest—it was because of a belief.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that many adults carry around the same assumptions about language learning. These myths are so common that they quietly stop people from ever getting started (or from trying again).

Let’s take a closer look at a few of them.

Myth #1: “I don’t have time.”

We are all busy. Very few people have the time—or desire—to commit to a multi-hour class several days a week.

The good news? Research consistently shows that shorter, more frequent practice sessions lead to better long-term retention than occasional marathon study sessions. Habits and consistency matter far more than cramming. I saw this borne out in my college classrooms year after year.

You don’t need huge chunks of time to learn Spanish. Just a consistent habit of short language learning practices that are sustainable because they fit into the rhythm of real life.  

Myth #2: “I’m just not good at languages.”

I hear this one almost daily:

“I took years of Spanish (or used apps for months), and I still can’t speak. I must not have the language-learning gene.”

In reality, the issue usually isn’t talent—it’s approach. Traditional one-size-fits-all instruction found in most courses, combined with little guidance on how to continue practicing afterward, leaves many learners stuck.

The truth is simple: if you learned your first language, you already have what it takes. Language learning is a skill, not a gene or a personality trait.

Myth #3: “I’m too old.”

It’s true that adults don’t learn languages the same way children do. Research suggests there’s a “critical period” for developing native-like pronunciation and fluency that ends in adolescence.

But adults have major advantages that make them good language learners: stronger analytical skills, life experience, self-direction, and clear motivation. In fact, studying a language later in life has been linked to improved memory, increased brain plasticity, and even delayed cognitive decline.

Different doesn’t mean worse—it just means different.

Myth #4: “Fluency takes years.”

Let’s take a moment to redefine the goal.

Instead of chasing perfect, fluent Spanish, what if you focused on becoming conversant?

Perfectionism is one of the biggest joy-killers in life and definitely in language learning. Rolling your R’s flawlessly, mastering every use of por vs. para, or fully understanding the subjunctive can come later and even then, you may continue to have lapses! That’s OK! 

Just watch Salma Hayek speak English on any talk show. She overcame learning disabilities and self-doubt to learn English later in life. She has a super thick Mexican accent and regularly bungles English expressions in her interviews. And yet she laughs all that off, is endearing to her fans and has enjoyed great success despite her struggles with the English language.

After 30 years of teaching, I’ve seen many beginners hold simple, meaningful conversations within 8–12 weeks when they have an effective road map and let go of perfectionism.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a first step. Learning a new language is a thrilling journey, every step of the way. You don’t want to miss it!

Myth #5: “You have to live abroad to become fluent.”

Living or studying abroad can be wonderful—but it’s not a magic solution, and it’s not accessible to everyone.

When I lived in Mexico, I met plenty of English speakers who had been there for years and still struggled to communicate confidently. Immersion alone isn’t enough.

Today, technology allows learners to interact with authentic Spanish—music, stories, podcasts, films, and even conversations with native speakers—from anywhere.  

Exposure to authentic Spanish can happen at home and fit into most schedules. And the right study methods and language-learning habits will help you get the most out of those immersive experiences.

If you’ve been carrying any of these beliefs, I hope this helped loosen their grip a bit.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing more about what actually helps busy adults learn Spanish in a way that feels authentic, sustainable, and enjoyable.

If Spanish has been on your “someday” list, this might be a good moment to move it a little closer to “now.”

Warmly,
Cynthia

P.S. Doors to the brand new Spanish on the Patio membership are opening in February. Get on the waitlist now to reserve your spot!