It feels like only yesterday that I sat down at my (new, Viennese) desk in 2017 and jotted down a few study tips. I was between jobs and had some time on my hands. Little did I know that eight years and over 80 issues later, I’d still be writing—and enjoying it just as much.

I started this monthly newsletter because I’m passionate about helping people learn English in a way that feels easy, enjoyable, and engaging. Learning should feel like a hobby—something you look forward to, a privilege you give yourself in the middle of a busy life. Rather than another task on your to-do list, I hope English becomes something woven into your daily rhythm. Ideally, when you do find five minutes to study, you might not even realise you're learning.

It should feel like the cup of coffee that naturally fits into your packed schedule—or like the time you automatically carve out for reading novels on holiday. Those habits found their place effortlessly, didn’t they? That’s what I hope English can become: a seamless, joyful part of your life.

You’ve probably already guessed: I don’t believe that learning ever truly ends. It’s a lifelong process—and that’s one of the things I love most about it. We grow as we learn. And if, through this newsletter, I’ve made learning English even a little more enjoyable—if I’ve helped you start a vocabulary collection, introduced you to a new phrase, or nudged you toward podcasts or phrasal verbs—then I’ve done my job.

I’ve always loved creating—whether it’s mixing different types of dough in the kitchen, knitting or designing e-learning materials like videos, worksheets, and handouts. That same creative spark I felt while drawing with coloured pencils as a child is still there today. I’m not sure if the work found me or I found it—but I do know that I love it.

Enjoy—and remember: just a little study each day goes a long way.