When I first moved to Japan, I thought my biggest challenge would be learning the language. Armed with basic phrases, enthusiasm, and humility, I dove in. But soon, I realized that understanding others — and being understood — is about much more than getting the words right.
Back home, switching between Croatian, English, Turkish, German, and sometimes Spanish always felt natural. Each language opened a window into a new world. Yet, no matter how fluent I became, there were moments when words alone weren’t enough. Living abroad made it clearer: communication isn’t just about speaking correctly — it’s about paying real attention.
At first, I focused too much on catching every word and silently correcting grammar. But over time, I realized that communication succeeds when we stop striving for perfection and start truly listening — not just to the language, but to the person behind it.
In any setting — from the office to casual conversations — the real challenge isn’t finding the right words. It’s paying attention to the unspoken: the pauses, the body language, and the emotions underneath. Genuine communication thrives when we listen deeply.
This shift in perspective affected everything I did — in daily life and in professional settings. Misunderstandings often happen not because of word mistakes, but because of not really listening. Whether in team discussions or negotiations, people can sense when they’re truly heard, building trust faster than any perfect presentation could.
Being a strong communicator isn’t about how many languages we speak or the precision of our grammar. It’s about creating space where ideas, feelings, and perspectives can flow freely — even through imperfect sentences. It’s measured by the depth of understanding we create with others, through patience, openness, and presence.
Maybe someday I’ll speak perfect Japanese, or maybe I’ll always rely a little on gestures and hopeful guesses. But one thing is clear: real understanding isn’t built through perfect words, but through genuine presence. Whether navigating a foreign language, building a career, strengthening a team, or simply connecting with someone new, it’s not fluency that builds bridges — it’s curiosity, patience, and the willingness to truly listen.
Veritas Coach
Lucija Maskaljevic
Originally from a small city in Croatia, Lucija always felt there was more to explore beyond what was familiar. Since graduating from Law school—after which people are usually expected to stay and work in their home country—she started to realize that her passion might not be in legal texts, but in connecting with people from different cultures. That’s when she turned to language learning. What began as a hobby quickly became something much bigger. Every new language she learned became the key that opened doors to new perspectives, opportunities, travel, friendships, and stepping outside of comfort zone.
Coming to Japan, she once again saw how important language is—not only for herself, but for others too. She understood what it felt like to be held back by a language barrier, and also how freeing it is to break through it. That’s when she found Veritas, and its mission really spoke to her. Now, as part of the Veritas team, Lucija helps others build that same confidence through language. She believes that acquiring a language can change your life and open so many doors—and she’s excited to support others on that journey, just like she once started her own.
