I still remember the first time I tried to learn a new language. I had a notebook full of neatly written words, a beginner’s guide that promised to make things easy, and a heart full of enthusiasm.

For the first few days, I was on fire—I memorized words, practiced sentences, and even tried to think in the new language. But then, reality hit.

The grammar rules made no sense, the words refused to stay in my memory, and I felt completely lost.

The excitement that had once fueled me started fading. I began questioning whether I was even capable of learning something this difficult.

I’ve had this experience not just with languages but with many other things—writing, public speaking, learning a new skill for work, even something as simple as forming a daily reading habit.

Every time, I start strong, then hit a wall, and doubt creeps in. My mind whispers, Maybe you’re just not meant for this.

But here’s the truth I’ve come to realize: that feeling—the one that makes me want to quit—is actually a sign that I’m learning.

The Hardest Part of Learning: The Dip

There’s a concept called The Dip, which I first came across in my reading. It describes that phase where enthusiasm fades, progress stalls, and frustration takes over. It happens to everyone.

When I first started writing, I imagined that my ideas would flow effortlessly onto the page. Instead, I found myself staring at blank screens, struggling to find the right words.

My first drafts were awful, and I wondered if I should even bother.

But the difference between those who succeed and those who give up isn’t talent—it’s persistence.

When I push past The Dip, I find breakthroughs on the other side. That’s when things start to click. But getting through that phase is never easy.

How I Keep Myself Motivated

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that motivation isn’t something that just appears—it’s something I have to actively create.

For me, the biggest motivator is community. Learning something new can feel isolating when I’m struggling alone.

But when I surround myself with people who are on a similar journey, everything changes.

That’s why I turned to ATReads, a social media platform built for book lovers, writers, and lifelong learners. It’s a space where I can connect with others who are also navigating their own learning challenges.

Sometimes, just seeing someone else share their struggles and victories reminds me that I’m not alone.

There have been days when I felt stuck, doubting my progress.

Then I’d log into ATReads and read about someone who finally finished their first book after months of struggle.

Or a language learner who finally had their first full conversation in a new language. Those moments inspire me.

They remind me that every step forward—no matter how small—counts.

Dealing with Doubt and Frustration

Doubt is a tricky thing. It shows up when I least expect it, making me question whether I should continue. When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back and remind myself:

• Progress is not always visible. Just because I don’t see immediate results doesn’t mean I’m not improving. Learning is like planting a seed—it takes time before anything starts to show.
• Mistakes are not failures; they’re part of the process. Every time I mess up, I learn something new.
• No one is naturally good at something from day one. Every expert was once a beginner who struggled.

I also break things down into smaller steps. When I was struggling to read books in a new language, I stopped pressuring myself to understand everything at once.

 Instead, I started reading just one page a day, focusing on enjoying the process rather than reaching an end goal.

Over time, those small efforts added up, and before I knew it, I was reading full books.

The Power of Persistence

I wish I could say I never struggle with motivation anymore, but that wouldn’t be true. There are still days when I feel stuck, days when I wonder if I should give up.

But every time I keep going, I’m reminded of why I started.

If you’re feeling stuck right now—if learning something new feels impossible—I want you to know that you’re not alone.

That frustration you feel? It’s not a sign that you should quit. It’s a sign that you’re growing.

And if you ever need a reminder that you’re not alone, you’ll always find support on ATReads.

Let’s keep learning together.