Hello and welcome. Today, let’s talk about improving your English speaking skills. These suggestions are general, but very practical. I’ve taught English for nearly two decades in several countries to students from many different backgrounds, and I’ve seen common reasons why people struggle with speaking—or avoid speaking at all.

1. Overcome Fear

The biggest obstacle to speaking is fear. Fear blocks confidence and keeps people silent. The first step toward fluency is to let go of that fear.

2. Relax and Stay Confident

When you are relaxed, your brain works better, ideas connect more easily, and words come out more naturally. Panic does the opposite. Confidence plays a key role here—remember that not speaking well does not mean you lack intelligence. If you travel to another country and cannot speak the local language well, it doesn’t make you foolish; it only means you are still learning.

3. Ignore Judgment

Only you can truly judge yourself. People may react differently—some will be patient, others won’t. If someone refuses to listen, simply move on and find someone else. Focus on your progress, not on others’ opinions.

4. Know Your Audience

Tailor your communication to the situation. For example, if you’re asking a bus driver for directions, don’t stress about making a perfect sentence. A few simple words are enough to get your message across.

5. Build Vocabulary First

Vocabulary is the foundation of speaking. Think of it like building a house: words are the building blocks, and grammar is the glue. Without words, grammar alone can’t help you. But with vocabulary, you can still communicate—even with mistakes.

6. Don’t Chase Perfection

Nobody speaks perfectly—not even native speakers. Mistakes are part of learning. Every error teaches you something new, while striving for perfection only delays your progress.

7. Practice Regularly

Practice is the most important step. Use these methods:

• Listen to speeches, interviews, or shows with transcripts, then record yourself and compare.
• Role-play conversations, switching between interviewer and interviewee.
• Speak in front of a mirror to build confidence.
• Create groups with classmates or friends and commit to using only English together.

Avoid falling back into your native language when you don’t need to. At home, it’s fine, but outside, push yourself to use English.

8. Be Adventurous

Language learning requires courage. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or looking silly. Every attempt builds growth. The goal is communication—whether for travel, education, work, or meeting new people.

Final Thought

To improve your speaking: relax, be confident, ignore judgment, focus on vocabulary, accept mistakes, and keep practicing. Approach English as an adventure, and each step will bring you closer to fluency.