When speaking in English, many people experience a feeling of discomfort that is generated from the inability to express themselves with the same fluency that one has when speaking their own language and the fear of making a fool of themselves automatically arises. It is normal for this to happen given that, beyond the hours of study dedicated to learning, to be able to function naturally in a second language, it is necessary to practice it, hear it and get used to it. But also, it is necessary to know what factors can worsen this feeling of defect when trying to communicate in English. Once you are aware of why, it will be much easier to master your fears.
In this PsychologyFor article, we will see 5 aspects to consider to control the fear of making a fool of yourself and how to lose that fear so that speaking in English does not give you anxiety<
Oral communication is characterized by being spontaneous. Talking about a topic is not the same as writing about it. Therefore, if every time you want to say something, you hold back and start thinking about whether the construction of the sentence is correct or whether you could conjugate the sentence in a better way, you are limiting yourself. Try not to analyze every single thing that comes out of your mouth, or at least don’t do it beforehand. If the person you are talking to is able to correct you, ask them to do so and that way you can learn while you practice without losing spontaneity.
You do not study
Many times we complain that something does not turn out the way we would like. In these cases it is necessary to compare our expectations with the time we dedicate to the activity. If my goal is to achieve bilingual language proficiency, I will inevitably have to dedicate time and effort to it. Currently, there are many alternatives when it comes to studying. With the possibility of being able to study virtually through the Internet, the limitations of schedules and distances are no longer an excuse. If you decide take English classes online For example, on platforms like Preply, you will have the opportunity to study at your own pace following a program developed according to your needs. On the other hand, if you are not willing to dedicate study time, then it is best to relax and not aim for excellence.
You don’t practice
Studying is essential, but then it is necessary to get out into reality and practice. It is advisable to add moments of practice outside the scope of study, that is, go out in search of people who speak English, whether native or who are learning like you, and try have a conversation in real life< Talking about how you feel, what plans you have, or expressing your opinion about a current topic will allow you to incorporate the new language into your life organically. Another option is to talk to yourself out loud. Whether it's a description of what you're doing, or a bunch of thoughts that apparently don't make much sense, it can help you because when you're alone, the pressure to make mistakes will be less and you may realize that you're better at it than you thought.
You are afraid of making mistakes
Perhaps this is the most determining factor when it comes to expressing yourself fluently. If you are thinking all the time that there is a possibility that you will make a mistake, you probably will. The funny thing is that you will do it anyway, because it is normal to make mistakes when you are learning something new, but when you focus on the mistake, it clouds everything else and anxiety takes over your mind twice: previously and then once. that you have already made a mistake. Of course, making a mistake when talking to a friend does not have the same impact as if the same thing happens in another area, whether work or professional. But it is necessary that as human beings we understand once and for all that errors are necessary to be able to advance in the study of any subject. We recommend that you consult this BBC article where they present the 6 reasons why making mistakes is okay<
You constantly compare yourself
It is not a competition with others, but with yourself. If every time you participate in a conversation, you are focusing on how much better others express themselves, instead of validating yourself and everything you have managed to learn in the time you have been trying, you are lost. Each person has their own learning times, and it is essential to know your own and respect it. It is not a race, there is no rush. The important thing is to be able to enjoy the progress, laugh at the mistakes and thus nurture self-confidence. In the following article, you will find more information about How to have confidence in yourself.
This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
If you want to read more articles similar to Does speaking English make you anxious? we recommend that you enter our Cognitive Psychology category.
