Honestly, though, while these can be helpful, don't worry if you are "behind" the average times. I have seen people ALL OVER in terms of speed and progression - it took me years to get basic conversations down, but I saw people become REALLY good in just 12 months. It's a mix of motivation, language ability, time, stress levels, and a hundred other things.
We're all running the same race, and all that matters is that you finish it, not which place you come in.
It's demoralizing and depressing to see how everyone else can do so much better and faster than you. I been learning Japanese for a while and yet I can't hold a proper basic conversation with anyone. It's a disgrace and great disappointment.
I really hope you do not let it bother you too much. I know it's impossible to turn those feelings off completely, but if it helps you at all, I am the best speaker I know (in Japanese), and yet it took me 3-4 years to do what others did in months. I was fortunate enough that my speed picked up rapidly after that, but while anecdotal, I really believe there isn't a good benchmark that can apply to everyone.
If you take a look at the renshuu discord, we've got people who have been on renshuu for a year and have already studied 10,000 words. Although I do not study Japanese actively any more, I used renshuu for close to 10 years, and still didn't hit 10,000. I was less motivated initially, busier with work/life, while this other user seems to have a lot more time (and motivation, plus the insane amount of Japanese media available online), and all those different factors worked differently for him.
Learning a language is tough, and hard work. It can be frustrating and sometimes you may feel like it’s too hard or others surpass you way quicker. While this may be true, I think the reward is great. Like マイコー sensei said, it’s not about getting first place but finishing the race. If I get down I like to focus on the little victories. Can you read the katakana on the wasabi at the store? Win! Can you tell the time? Win! Can you read that one kanji character that you’ve been studying? Absolute win! Those are what keep me going. Every little victory can push you forward. Find what keeps you going. Is it comparison to people? Is it striving for knowledge? Or maybe being able to talk to the waiter at a restaurant? I hope you find what you need so you get encouraged!
don't be discouraged. Japanese is hard but the feeling when you realize you are able to understand what people say and respond to them, is amazing. it's worth it. always remember the reason why you decided to study. if it doesn't help anymore - find one more reason. you can do it
