Find Your English Voice: Overcome Speaking Anxiety 👇

Beginner Level | August 7, 2025

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Do you ever feel nervous before speaking English? Maybe your heart beats faster, your mind goes blank, or your words get stuck. You’re not alone—many professionals feel this way, even after years of study.

The good news? You can overcome speaking anxiety with a few simple steps. You don’t have to be perfect—you just need to focus on connection, not perfection.

Why Overcome Speaking Anxiety Matters

Speaking anxiety often comes from fear—fear of making mistakes, being judged, or not finding the right words. This fear can make you speak less, which actually slows your progress.

The key to overcome speaking anxiety is to break the cycle: speak more, with less pressure.

Step 1: Start Small

Instead of waiting for a “big moment” like a presentation, begin with short, low-pressure conversations. For example: greet a coworker, ask the barista how their day is, or comment on the weather with a colleague.

Small wins build confidence—and confidence grows with practice.

Step 2: Prepare Phrases in Advance

Think of 3–5 useful sentences you can use anytime:

“Good morning! How’s your day going so far?”
“That’s interesting—tell me more.”
“I’m learning more about [topic]—what do you think?”

When you already know what to say, you can focus on listening and responding.

Step 3: Focus on the Other Person

When you feel nervous, shift the focus away from yourself. Ask open-ended questions like:

“What’s been keeping you busy this week?”
“What’s the most interesting part of your work?”

When the other person talks more, you relax—and the pressure drops.

Step 4: Use Your Body to Calm Your Mind

Before you speak, take a slow breath, drop your shoulders, and smile. Your body tells your brain it’s safe, making it easier to speak naturally.

Step 5: Celebrate Every Conversation

Even if you make mistakes, congratulate yourself for speaking. Confidence comes from action, not from waiting to feel “ready.”

Vocabulary List

Anxiety (noun) — A feeling of worry or nervousness.
Example: She felt anxiety before her presentation.
Pressure (noun) — Stress or urgency to perform well.
Example: I work better with less pressure.
Cycle (noun) — A repeating pattern of events.
Example: Speaking less can create a cycle of low confidence.
Low-pressure (adjective) — Relaxed, not stressful.
Example: Start with low-pressure situations like greeting a neighbor.
Phrase (noun) — A group of words that express an idea.
Example: Learn useful phrases to use in conversation.
Respond (verb) — To answer or reply.
Example: I didn’t know how to respond to his question.
Open-ended (adjective) — Allowing for a longer, more detailed answer.
Example: “What do you think?” is an open-ended question.
Relax (verb) — To become less tense or worried.
Example: I relax when I listen to music.
Celebrate (verb) — To recognize and enjoy a success.
Example: Celebrate your progress, even if it’s small.
Confidence (noun) — Belief in your abilities.
Example: Speaking every day will build your confidence.

5 Questions About the Article

What are some common causes of speaking anxiety?
Why is starting small important for building confidence?
Give one example of a useful prepared phrase.
How can focusing on the other person reduce your anxiety?
What body language tip can help you feel calmer before speaking?

5 Open-Ended Discussion Questions

When do you usually feel nervous speaking English?
Which tip from the article do you want to try first?
How do you prepare before an important conversation?
What’s one small speaking goal you could set for this week?
Have you ever felt more confident after speaking with someone new?

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