One of the most important things to remember if you are bent on learning a new language is that you must be fully into it with your mind and heart. Even if you find it easy at first, do not become overconfident as at some point it will become tougher and you will not be prepared for it. When it comes to speaking Spanish there are many ways to learn how to speak it: for one, most colleges and universities offer Spanish language courses since they believe it is really helpful, which is true. In case you think that you might be over age to join classes with a bunch of young people, then opt for their language programs. From what I know, schools offer crash courses in different languages during school break, especially during summer.
For people looking for a position where speaking Spanish is a requirement, some languages companies can arrange ‘crash’ courses and help with finding that job afterwards. In case you do not have any time, many bookshops sell dictionaries, which can also help you learn the language. Lots of self-help books are also available where there are lots of sentences in Spanish with their English translations appearing at the bottom. There is the ever so trusted Internet where you can find loads of free tutorials on Google or yahoo. It’s not just about reading and teaching yourself on how to pronounce the words, although it’s easy since speaking Spanish is more phonetic. Web casts and pod casts today help you listen to the language via the Internet and some sites even allow you to download it, so just type and you can learn.
But, it is much easier to learn if you really listen, don’t just go with the books as there are songs and movies and telenovelas you can always listen or watch. Pictures are a great help since when you learn a Spanish word, you remember it better when you know what it appears like. If money and time permits, take off and visit the land where the language is spoken by every one. Be familiar with their habitat and culture and in no time, you would be speaking Spanish.
Do not tax your self too much while learning, as the more tensed you are the more frustrated you would get. Remember not just say the words when you are speaking Spanish but to use an accent as well - it will improve the sound. You might sound outlandish but never mind, when you are learning a language for the first time you are not expected to speak it fluently. Learning is a non-stop affair throughout your life and languages can be part of this process so if you treat it as fun, you are likely to at least enjoy yourself while you are studying.