Is German Really That Hard? Or Are We Just Approaching It the Wrong Way?

“German is hard.”

I hear this all the time.

And I get it.

When you're faced with words like Geschwindigkeitsbegrenzung or trying to figure out why the word for “girl” (Mädchen) is neuter, it’s easy to throw your hands up.

But let me tell you:

German isn't impossible. It might not even be as hard as you think. What makes it feel difficult is often not the language itself, but how we approach learning it.

1. Trying to Memorise Everything at Once

Many learners rely on brute force: long vocabulary lists, too many grammar tables at once and an endless stream of YouTube videos. It’s like trying to drink from a fire hose.

No wonder it feels overwhelming.

👉 What to try instead: Pace yourself and learn in context. Look at new grammar and vocabulary in full sentences. Notice how the pieces fit together. You’ll begin to feel the language working, instead of just trying to force it into memory.

2. Avoiding Grammar Altogether

On the flip side, some learners say:

“I’ll just focus on vocabulary. I’ll deal with grammar later - if at all.”

The result?

You might know 500 words, but still struggle to form a basic sentence.

Grammar is the glue that holds your words together. EXPECIALLY in the German language.

And I'll give you some important advice: the longer you wait, the harder it gets!

So best to tackle it now.

👉 What to try instead: Break grammar into bite-sized challenges. That’s exactly what we do in our 10-week self-study Masterclass in the Better German Community Hive. One concept at a time, short explanations, real examples and practical tasks to help you actually use what you’ve learned.

3. Staying in Your Comfort Zone

You might be getting by in Germany using English. Or speaking just enough German to manage daily life. That feels safe. Comfortable.

But over time, that comfort becomes a trap. You stop progressing. You lose confidence. You avoid speaking.

👉 What to try instead: Be brave and step out slowly, but consistently. Try one sentence at the bakery. Ask questions. Make mistakes. Learn from them.

In the Hive, you can post your questions 24/7 in the Q&A forum and we will help you. No more wasting time searching online for questionable advice - life is definitely too short for that!

So... Is German Really That Hard?

Yes, there are tricky parts. But the problem usually isn’t the language, it’s the method.

If you’ve felt stuck or frustrated, it’s not because you’re bad at languages. You probably just haven’t found the right way for you yet.

The Hive gives you a clear structure, a supportive community and expert guidance - without the overwhelm.

Ready to try us out?

Reach out to me to arrange a call so I can show you around our wonderful Hive.

And if you are already a loyal member: THANK YOU! I love having you in our Hive, interacting with you each week and helping you learn. Remember that, as a member, you can offer a 10% discount to any of your friends, colleagues or family members who wish to learn German in our Hive, too!

Just ask me for your personalised discount code. And as a thank you from me, I'll have a token of gratitude waiting for you, too :-)

I'll see you in the Hive!

Your "Queen Bee",

Birte

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P.S. If you haven’t already, watch my video to show you lots more about our Better German Community Hive!