How did you learn other languages?

 A lot of people often ask me about this question - How did you learn many languages? I have been asked this question so many times, even more than twice in a day!

 First of all, I have never used any kind of books, dictionaries and other aids when I start learning a specific language. English, Filipino, Japanese, German .. yeah, whatever you can list it down.

 My learning is focused on 'oral' and 'practical' usage just for better communication with the native speakers. So when I start to study a language, I never use any kinds of aid. What I use is multimedia and art works, not stereotype books and dictionaries, such as Movies, Novels, Games. 

 I learned Japanese through Anime and Manga and now I can communicate with Japanese people without any problem. You have already seen a lot of my posts, twits and chats in Japanese, I guess.

 In case of English, I learned through Movies. Yeah, everybody likes movie especially if that is directed by .. mostly English speakers. 

 Filipino is just a special case for me. Since I live in Philippines, I have no choice but to listen and use Filipino language everyday. I need to use Filipino when I just step one foot outside of the door.

 German and Russian .. I also learned through movie and music. There are a lot of musics in German and Russian which sounds really great.

 I use the aids - books and dictionaries as I mentioned maybe websites can be included here - only if when higher level of literacy in specific language is required. Art and Mediawork are indeed the great source of study but those are not enough to take exams. I can speak Japanese and Filipino but I cannot take exams in those languages.

 However, this is just in my case. Study style really differs and depends on one's preferences. You might not feel enough with art and mediaworks only. You might feel just ok with it since your purpose is just to communicate with native speakers; hence, try any other ways that fits perfectly with you. Do not be obsessed with the other's way of learning.

 In order to find your way, you must think first, your purpose of learning. Do you need to learn foreign language just to communicate with native speakers? Or do you need it for professional translation and written studies? That question will be answered by you.

So, do your best and good luck!