5 tips to build language confidence

Once the familiar textbook is gone and the conversation begins, many learners suddenly experience a drop in confidence. All your studying has built up to that face-to-face moment, but suddenly your mind goes blank. The words don’t come out right. You panic.

In moments like these, remember that everyone experiences changes in their confidence levels. From beginners to long-time speakers, moments of self-doubt will come and go throughout all learning journeys. Building language confidence is a lifelong goal, but one that will become easier with time and practice.

To help you on your learning journey, here are 5 tips to build to building language confidence:

1. Talk to yourself (and answer)

It sounds a little funny at first, but this is the best way to create an immersive environment wherever you are. When you wake up in the morning say “good morning” and answer yourself “good morning to you too!” While watching TV ask yourself “What do you think will happen next?” and answer with your prediction. The more you do this, the more you will start to notice topics you are comfortable with and what you need to learn next. Most importantly, engaging with the language consistently will make speaking in your second language completely natural.

2. Use the “phrasebook approach”

We’ve all been there - once you settle into a conversation ideas and words come quickly. But getting to that point can be intimidating; the conversation opener is the hardest part. To make use of the phrasebook approach, think about situations that you often find yourself in and practice phrases that can be used in those moments. Practice them and use them in every opportunity you find. For example, when getting your morning coffee - “What do you recommend?”; “Do you mind if I sit here?”; “Are you waiting in line?” If you can start the conversation off with ease, the rest will come more naturally.

3. Explore your interests

Similar to the phrasebook approach, think about what your interests are and develop conversation points that pique your interest. Like to cook? Think about how you could describe your favourite dish. Into rock-climbing? Where would you recommend a beginner to start? By developing conversations around your interests, you’ll feel more at ease telling stories and sharing your ideas.

4. Consider the other perspective

Those misunderstandings or awkward silences that arise might not have anything to do with your language skills at all.  People (regardless of language) might get nervous meeting someone new or keeping up a conversation with someone they don’t know very well. Keep this in mind whenever you feel a waiver in your self-confidence, and keep on trying.

Last, but not least...

5. Focus on the positive moments

If you have an interaction that knocks your confidence down, take a step back to realize: it’s only one moment among countless others. Reflect on the people and potential conversation partners who are kind, supportive and friendly. If you feel discouraged, take time to recognize the positive moments in your language learning and reflect on the progress you HAVE made.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, remember that language learning is an up and down journey. Confidence is a skill in and of itself, and one that can be developed with time and patience. Be proud of your hard work and don’t give up.