Vanessa interviews Jacob, an English learner living in Korea, about getting more comfortable speaking a new language in front of other people. Jacob describes studying Korean on his own but feeling afraid to approach native speakers and use what he had learned. He offers five practical ideas for moving through that fear while acknowledging that mistakes and occasional bad interactions are part of language learning.
First, remember that you are not a native speaker, so listeners may understand that you are learning and give you more patience. Perfect grammar and pronunciation are not prerequisites for being understood. Second, do not let an impatient or rude interaction define your ability. Try not to take it personally; the other person may have their own reasons for behaving that way. Keep moving forward rather than replaying the encounter as proof that your English is bad.
Third, ask yourself what the worst possible thing is that could happen if you start a conversation, and then ask whether you could cope with that outcome. Jacob suggests that embarrassment is usually manageable, and considering that can make the fear feel smaller. Fourth, learn to laugh at yourself when a harmless mistake happens. He shares a story about a word that sounded funny after a direct translation between Korean and English. The important point is to explain the misunderstanding kindly and laugh together—not to mock someone for making a language error.
Fifth, begin with short exchanges in situations where conversation is already expected, such as ordering coffee, asking a question at a restaurant, or shopping. These routine interactions can provide lower-pressure practice than approaching a stranger solely to practise. Be considerate: keep the exchange relevant, notice whether the other person seems available, and do not assume service workers have time for a long conversation.
The discussion’s broader message is that speaking practice requires accepting imperfection. Mistakes are a normal part of learning, confidence builds through experience, and a difficult conversation does not erase previous progress. Useful expressions include “hold us back,” “take things personally,” “work up the courage,” “laugh at yourself,” and “burst out laughing.” Use the ideas gradually, starting with a manageable conversation and treating yourself with the same patience you would offer another learner.