Afraid to speak English? Try this.

If you want to conquer your fear of speaking, you need to ask yourself these questions:

What exactly am I afraid of?

Making a mistake? Being misunderstood? Looking bad in front of your peers?

Once you identify and acknowledge your fear, you can start to move past it.

“What if I make a mistake?”

Well, of course you will! We all make mistakes, and no one is keeping score. Learn to laugh at yourself and life becomes a lot more fun.

“What if I can’t express myself?”

Take a deep breath. Calm down. The more anxious you become, the harder it will be to speak. If you’re in a situation where you absolutely must be understood correctly, have a back-up plan. Tell yourself, I can always use Google translate if I have to. (Trust me, I’ve been there…and survived. 😅)

“What if I look stupid?”

This one is simple. If they don’t pay your bills, don’t mind them. If someone has learned a language before, then they will understand your struggle. If they haven’t learned a second language? Well, I’m no good at math, but that probably means they only speak one language.

If you struggle to speak in a professional setting...

DO try these survival phrases in English:

If you do find yourself in a place where you really can't understand, or can't express yourself, these phrases could save you:

• Come again?

• Could you repeat that?

• English is my second language. Could you speak slowly, please?

• I can't find the word in English, but it is like...

Start to gain confidence today.

• Accept that you're bound to make some mistakes, and that's okay.

• Practice in front of the mirror.

• Make speaking English a daily habit.

• Find a tutor who encourages you.

• Find a supportive community of English learners. Discuss your fears. You're not going through this alone. Most of the people you come across will have the same concerns as you. Talking through this together isn't just therapeutic; it's great English practice!

30 Minute Speaking Lesson

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