The Key to Global Opportunities: My Journey Learning English

Dear network,

Learning English has been one of the most transformative experiences in my personal and professional journey. Today, I want to share my story to inspire others, especially those pursuing careers in technology and cybersecurity, where mastering a second language can open countless doors.

Humble Beginnings

I grew up in a small, peaceful town 200 kilometers away from Panama City. While my public school provided a good education, the level of English instruction was very basic. My parents, though supportive, couldn’t afford specialized English courses.

When I moved to the city 20 years ago, I had no savings or material possessions—just an unwavering determination to grow and succeed. For years, I focused on building a foundation for my life. It wasn’t until 2011, at the age of 28, that I began learning English through self-study on OpenEnglish, dedicating 10 hours per week to lessons, live sessions, and practice.

At the time, many people around me said it was “too late to start”, that learning a language as an adult was nearly impossible. Yet, I refused to let these beliefs define my reality. I turned that doubt into motivation, proving to myself and others that it’s never too late to start, and the only limits are the ones we accept.

This milestone became a testament to the power of persistence and self-belief, shaping the journey that followed.

When I Wanted to Give Up

To you reading this, perhaps you feel stuck in a routine, or maybe you’re having a day where everything seems to go wrong. Whatever your situation, let me share something I learned on my journey: real change begins when we stop searching for answers outside and start looking at the light within ourselves.

In moments of deep frustration, I realized that external circumstances don’t define our destiny—it’s how we choose to face them that matters most.

There were times of exhaustion, doubt, and frustration. Many people told me I wouldn’t go far, saying things like, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

However, I always reminded myself why I left my hometown: to grow and become the best version of myself, even though I didn’t know how back then. I clung to my purpose, visualizing my goals as if I had already achieved them.

This purpose—the foundation of this newsletter, "Transformation with Purpose"—and my faith were my strength. Faith, to me, is believing that something is yours, even if your eyes can’t see it yet, but your intuition and heart can.

That inner light, that belief in your potential, is what will take you farther than you can imagine. Cultivating that connection with yourself is the first step toward any meaningful transformation.

Creative Immersion

I couldn’t rely solely on structured lessons, so I created my own immersive environment:

• Changed the settings of my phone and computer to English.
• Watched Netflix shows in English with English subtitles.
• Listened to music in English while reading lyrics.

This consistency helped me lay the groundwork for understanding and communicating effectively.

Breakthrough Opportunities

A significant turning point came when I started working in a global division of a multinational company, where 90% of my colleagues were from the U.S., Asia, Europe, and other regions. English was the bridge that connected us.

During this time:

• I worked closely with a French colleague who spoke no Spanish, making English our only language of communication.
• I traveled solo to Texas for two weeks—a transformative experience that tested and expanded my language skills.

These experiences not only improved my fluency but also gave me confidence to engage on a global scale.

Achievements Made Possible by English

Mastering English became a turning point in my professional and personal journey. It wasn’t just about learning a language—it was about unlocking a world of opportunities that had once felt out of reach.

Through dedication and perseverance, I accessed study materials, online courses, and professional certifications that were exclusively available in English. These achievements opened doors I had never imagined, propelling my career forward and broadening my horizons.

But let me be clear: the certifications and accolades are just milestones. What truly matters is the process—the determination to keep learning, even when it feels overwhelming, and the courage to believe in something greater for yourself.

To you reading this: If you’ve ever doubted whether you can achieve similar goals, let me assure you—you absolutely can. Progress is built one small step at a time. What starts as a spark of curiosity can grow into a transformative journey if you nurture it with persistence and belief in your potential.

Two Valuable Lessons

Use It or Lose It

For nearly five years, I didn’t practice English regularly or immersively due to life circumstances. This gap led to a noticeable decline in my fluency and required significant effort to regain it. Over months of frequent and consistent practice in my most recent and current professional roles, my fluency gradually returned, along with updated knowledge and insights.

This experience taught me that skills, like muscles, need regular exercise to stay sharp. Whether it’s a language, a technical ability, or a leadership trait, consistency is key to maintaining and enhancing what you’ve worked hard to achieve.

Listen and Learn

Throughout my journey, I encountered people who shared their experiences, perspectives, and advice. I learned to listen carefully, with an open mind, humility, and sincere gratitude.

Listening is not merely about hearing; it’s about understanding with both your heart and mind. It’s discovering sparks in others’ stories that can ignite your own inspiration and guide your path.

Together, these lessons—the importance of consistent practice and the value of attentive listening—serve as reminders that progress is a combination of self-discipline and openness to learning.

It’s Not Just About English

While my journey focuses on learning English, the broader message is about the importance of mastering a second language, whether it’s English or another language that aligns with your personal and professional development plans. A second language can be a gateway to new knowledge, connections, and opportunities, helping you thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

To My Network

I hope my story inspires you to embrace the challenge of learning a second language or any skill that seems out of reach. Remember, with perseverance and dedication, you can achieve your dreams.

Stay committed,

Alfredo