Let's face it, you've always wanted to learn a second language, you're tired of all your friends who can speak Italian, Spanish or French and you're left saying... "What did he say?"

Life can be about making excuses or taking action, that choice is yours, but my job is to turn the tide and break down the obstacles, so here goes...

ITALIAN IS DIFFICULT TO LEARN

Italian is one of the easier romance languages to learn. The alphabet is the same, words sound (for the most part) just the way they're spelled. Sure you'll make mistakes when you first start, but don't dwell on what you're having difficulty with, instead say..."Bravo (or Coraggioso in Italian) and move on with your lesson.

I HAVE DIFFICULTY ROLLING MY Rs (la erre moscia)

Rolling your "Rs" is something all of us (even native Italians) have difficulty with; it simply takes a bit of practice.

EXERCISE: Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth and make the sound of a revving motorcycle.

I CAN'T FIND A GOOD SCHOOL TO LEARN ITALIAN

While that once may have been an obstacle, today it's more of an opportunity. Just search online, you'll find videos, podcasts, tutorials and even those willing to help you via Skype. Just put your mind to it and DO IT.

ALL THAT EFFORT, THEN NO USE FOR THE LANGUAGE

Often it is the journey, not the destination that makes life fun and exciting. While some may have a need to learn Italian immediately, others will find reasons and opportunities as they become more proficient and confident.

I'M NOT A COLLEGE STUDENT ANYMORE, MAYBE I'M TOO OLD TO LEARN

You are never too old to learn something new. Learning Italian can stretch your boundaries, help you enjoy life and experience something new. There are many excuses, but only one decision... "Live to learn and you will learn to live".

HOW CAN I PRACTICE, I DON'T HAVE ANY ITALIAN FRIENDS?

There are Italians (even native Italians) all around you, and while you may not know them personally, they'll be only too happy to help you learn. If you can't readily find a local Italian's group, check with your local university, the language department can point you in the right direction.

MY DAYS ARE FULL, WHEN WILL I FIND THE TIME TO LEARN ITALIAN?

There's a truism in life, when we find something we want, we'll find the time to make it happen. Only you can decide if learning Italian is important (or leaning anything new for that matter), but once the decision is made, don't let procrastination keep you from realizing your dreams.

I'LL NEVER LOSE MY ACCENT

Practice! While you'll certainly stumble over a word or two (or three) that's part of the process and each time you make a mistake, you'll learn from it. Find someone (or a group) locally who speak Italian then simply talk with them. While you're accent will certainly not be perfect, let them know you're learning the language and ask for assistance and guidance. In most cases they'll say "Yes (or Si)" and be happy to lend a hand.

Whether you plan to visit Italy, or just want to further your education, learning Italian is a worthwhile endeavor. Imagine you're in a strange country and need help, but have no idea how to ask for it, it could be a life threatening situation. Communication is how people interact, and when you learn Italian you'll have increased your chances for meeting (and interacting) with other by millions.

Take action today, learning Italian could be one of the best decisions you'll ever make. If you're keen on learning Italian then there are plenty of Italian language schools in Florence eurocentres-firenze.it, why not consider taking a holiday in Italy and combine it with the opportunity to learn a completely new language? What are you waiting for!