3 ways to boost your confidence as a speaker of English

Hi, everyone. My name is Jiri.

And in this video, I'd like to talk about

a topic that is relevant to us all as language learners.

Confidence, we'll learn about three ways that can help you

boost your confidence when speaking in English.

But before I continue, if you like what we create

here on the channel, hit the like button

and subscribe to the channel.

My first tip is to develop a positive attitude towards mistakes.

When I say the word mistake, do you see something frightening,

like a big, scary monster?

Or do you see a monster that is cute and fluffy?

The way we understand mistakes necessarily

determines how confident English speakers we become.

Mistakes are an important part of learning a language.

And you know what?

We all make them, from Jan, who is on an

A1 level, to Molly, who was born in the US.

Also, notice that your listeners care much more

about what you say rather than about your mistakes.

For example, when I tell my wife in Spanish about my

plan for the weekend, making a few mistakes,

[non-English], two days later, she remembers only my plan to

play the guitar, not my mistakes.

And if you repeatedly make a mistake that someone corrects, [non-English],

research shows that this moment actually activates your brain more,

resulting in better memory retention.

Be a fan of your mistakes and gain confidence.

Number two, become proud of your accent.

Essentially, people who like the way they sound in English become highly

confident English speakers.

We all can sound a bit different in English based on our first languages.

And that's okay.

If your goal is to learn a specific English accent,

go for it.

Just remember that the key to effective communication always

is to be understood, not necessarily to

be and sound perfect.

How about finding role models from your country who you think

speak great English?

Become a fan of how you sound and gain more confidence.

Number three, prove yourself to yourself in real-life situations.

Whenever I managed to overcome a challenge I'd set for myself,

it effectively boosted my confidence.

Be it having a chat with an English-speaking friend,

studying abroad or simply ordering a meal

in a restaurant on holidays, create meaningful real-life

challenges for yourself and gain more confidence.

These were my three tips to boost your confidence.

How about you?

What makes you feel confident when communicating in English?

Let's share and discuss in the comments.

Thanks for watching and I'll see you next time.

Bye.