Survey insights on how to set realistic language learning goals and stay motivated

Setting personal goals — whether for language learning or other areas of life — is exciting. But staying committed over time can be harder than expected. Motivation fades, routines shift and everyday responsibilities can get in the way. To better understand what helps people keep going, we surveyed 2,000 adults in the US about the goals they set, the challenges they face and what keeps them on track. According to the results, learning a new language is one of the most common ambitions, but many people struggle with keeping that momentum. Below, we explore what gets in the way and how realistic goal setting can help you succeed.

• Key insights from the survey
• Why sticking with goals can be difficult
• How to stay consistent with your goals
• Summary: Build habits that last

Key insights from the survey

Our survey revealed useful trends around goal setting and persistence:

• Around 45% of respondents expressed a desire to learn a new language.
• About 60% said that staying motivated is their biggest challenge.
• More than half explained they struggle because their goals are not realistic or specific.
• Around 57% reported that external factors, such as work or family commitments, interfere with their plans.
• Half of those surveyed believe that setting realistic, specific goals would help them stay on track.

These insights remind us that ambition is not the main issue — consistency and planning make the difference.

Why sticking with goals can be difficult

People pursue different kinds of goals: from improving health to enhancing work-life balance. Many also aim to learn a new language because it opens doors to new cultures and meaningful experiences.

However, sustaining effort over time isn’t easy. Motivation often diminishes once the initial excitement wears off. Without a routine or clear plan, it’s easy for old habits to return. Daily responsibilities, unexpected events, and competing priorities can also push language learning down the list.

How to stay consistent with your goals

Understanding common challenges can help you plan effectively. Survey respondents told us that:

• Setting realistic goals increases confidence and consistency.
• Being willing to adjust goals as life changes helps keep progress steady.
• Support from friends, family or a learning community strengthens motivation.

Here are three practical strategies you can apply in your language-learning journey.

1. Be specific and realistic

Big goals can feel inspiring but also vague, which makes them harder to achieve. Breaking your goals into smaller, measurable steps helps you see progress more clearly and gives you a stronger sense of motivation.

Instead of aiming to “be fluent” without a plan, try setting a specific milestone, such as mastering essential conversation phrases or finishing a chapter in a structured study plan. You can also explore how a language study plan helps you set clear goals and build a routine that actually fits your life.

2. Build discipline through routine

Motivation is helpful, but it’s the routines and disciplines that sustain long-term progress. Learning regularly — even in short sessions — helps you build a habit. Consistency beats intensity over time.

If you sometimes struggle to stay on track, you might find strategies from our article about staying motivated especially useful. It explains ways to regain focus and structure study time so you can keep advancing even when motivation dips. 

3. Find support and celebrate progress

Long-term goals are much easier to stick with when you have support. Connecting with people who share your goals, whether in a class, a study group or a language-learning community, can keep you on track and make the journey more fun. Learning with others creates a feeling of shared progress, which can give you an extra boost on days when motivation is low. You can also explore how learning as part of a team strengthens confidence and helps you stay consistent.

Summary: Build habits that last

Setting clear, achievable goals and developing consistent routines are key to staying motivated on your language-learning journey. Breaking goals into bite-sized milestones and finding the right support systems make progress feel tangible and rewarding. With practical strategies and steady effort, you can maintain momentum and enjoy real progress toward your language goals.

Discover Lingoda. Reach your goals.

How it works

Methodology

OnePoll collected quantitative data for this study on behalf of Lingoda. Between 14–18 December 2023, 2,000 adults in the United States aged 18 and older answered questions about their personal goals, the barriers they face and what helps them stay committed to long-term routines.