To me, it's quite important. I know a large number of people simply aren't interested in learning grammar, but I believe it's a big part of coming across as intelligent.
I had learned a few things in a few different languages and I noticed something. What I noticed was that you learn a lot about your own language when you learn about other languages. So I guess I enjoyed that.
I think listening is the hardest, because if you've ever learned a second language, I'm sure a lot of us could agree that simply understanding what the speaker is saying is the most difficult thing. At least for me.
I'm a fast reader, and I never read out loud. I suggest anyone who wants to increase their reading speed to try and imagine yourself saying "1, 2, 3" in your head. Hey, it works for me!
I agree with the idea of writing a draft of a piece and working to reduce your word count. I've never worked with anything involving a word-count other than school essays, so I don't quite know where you're coming from. But, anyways, good luck!