#421 - 6 Reasons You Still Feel NERVOUS When Speaking English — 6 Things Not to Do, How to Stop Feeling Insecure and Face the Fear of Making Mistakes in English
RealLife English: Learn and Speak Confident, Natural English
Deep Dive
Why do people often feel nervous when speaking English?
People often feel nervous when speaking English because they get into a performance mode, feel under pressure, and worry about making mistakes or being judged. This can lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, even when they have a good grasp of the language.
Why is confidence overrated in the context of language learning?
Confidence is overrated because it often comes from repetitive success, which is not always available when you're learning something new. Instead, courage is more important—taking the first step before you have the success. Confidence will naturally develop with practice.
Why should you not be ashamed of speaking English?
You should not be ashamed of speaking English because learning a foreign language is a significant achievement. Embrace the process, enjoy it, and take pride in your efforts. Practice and engagement will lead to improvement and confidence over time.
Why is it important not to be afraid of making mistakes when speaking English?
Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Being afraid of making mistakes can prevent you from practicing and improving. Embrace mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. Even famous figures like Thomas Edison and characters like Harry Potter have shown that persistence and practice lead to mastery.
Why should you avoid apologizing for your level of English?
Apologizing for your level of English can create a negative self-fulfilling prophecy and interrupt the flow of conversation. Natives and other speakers are generally understanding and appreciate your effort to communicate. Focus on practicing and improving rather than apologizing.
Why is it harmful to compare yourself with other English speakers?
Comparing yourself with others can be detrimental because everyone has a unique learning journey. Embrace your own path, be vulnerable, and focus on your personal growth. Comparing yourself can lead to unnecessary frustration and hinder your progress.
Why should you not take it personally if people don't understand you?
If people don't understand you, it may not be your fault. They might not be used to your accent or might not know certain words. Don't take it personally; instead, find another way to communicate your message. Celebrities and language learners often face similar situations and handle them with humor and patience.
Why should you not get frustrated with yourself when learning English?
Frustration can be a natural part of learning, but it's important to manage it. Learning a language takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and remember that everyone learns at their own pace. Focus on small, consistent improvements rather than getting discouraged by setbacks.
- Confidence is overrated; courage is more important.
- Overly confident people can be obnoxious.
- Confidence comes from repetitive success.
- Courage is needed to take the first step.
- The RealLife app helps practice vocabulary.
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