It depends on the language if it's similar to your own language or not. If in the vocabulary there are "cognates" words that are similar. For a native Italian one year of intense study are enough to achieve fluency in Spanish but it needs years for Chinese or Arabic. 

I would spend as much time as i could on input. Focus on the things you enjoy. Read novels, magazines etc. Watch TV, documentaries. Really get the language into you.

There are also many methods and theories for improving sporting skills or musical skills.  The "difficult" part is applying those theories.