I was going through my thumb drive when I chanced upon my resolutions. I am a sucker for this kind of things and so I actually make lists during the first week of January each year. Anyway for me it’s quite fun to track what I set out to achieve and what I really achieve.
It’s funny how I saw my 2009 and 2010 lists and just reviewed them (though technically I still have a few more months to go before 2010 officially ends).
On my 2009 list, I was pleased to note that I had achieved a major goal I set out for myself.
On my 2010 list, I managed to achieve 3 items!
While reviewing my 2010 list, it gave me a renewed focus on what I want to go for this year. Some are spiritual and personal goals while others are business goals.
Among the 3 items is one which I have been wanting to achieve for a long time now, ever since I could be regretful.
I’ve always regretted that I didn’t pay much attention in my Mandarin classes while at primary school. My teacher was in his 60s and he just taught us on Saturdays and I used to play around. I didn’t think learning Chinese was THAT important.
Well, not until I got into my 20s and thought, heck, if only I could write and read Mandarin. It would be so wonderful (I speak Mandarin and it would have been complete!).
Over the years, I’ve tried to learn using CDs and Chinese learning software. To no avail.
So I made up my mind to engage a teacher only to be slightly intimidated by the fact that I’d need to go for Chinese tuition! I was even thinking of joining some kids in the Kumon centres – I heard they taught Mandarin too. A friend had learnt Mandarin this way!
A few weeks ago, I came upon Skritter and knew that my search was over.
Skritter is an online subscription website where you can sign up to learn Chinese or Japanese. I’ve signed up to learn simplified Chinese. It’s been the cat’s whiskers so far. I’m dutifully engaged because it actually tracks my progress.
I do know that nothing beats a real teacher but this can be a good replacement teacher if you’re eager to learn at your own pace.
Let’s see how it goes!
Maya, thanks for your kind words about Skritter. I would recommend pairing Skritter with something like ChinesePod (or one of the cheaper alternatives) so that you know both the writing and context.
If you need any support to get you going do not hesitate to contact us here at Skritter if you have any troubles or feedback for us!
– Doug
HI Doug – thanks for coming up with Skritter. Not sure what ChinesePod is but will try to find out (as you can see, I am such a newbie at this). What attracted me to Skritter was its simplicity. Will let you know if I come across anything as feedback for you guys. Till then, keep up the good work.