Language learning tips — what actually works

Been trying to learn the local language for 3 months. Here's what worked and what didn't:

What Works

• Daily practice with locals (even just ordering food)
• Language exchange meetups (there's one every Tuesday)
• Apps for vocabulary (30 min/day minimum)
• Writing a daily journal in the target language

What Doesn't Work

• Passive listening to podcasts only
• Studying grammar rules without practice
• Relying on English everywhere

My Level After 3 Months

Can order food, have basic conversations, understand about 40% of what I hear. Long way to go but the effort opens so many doors.

Anyone want to be language exchange partners?