I had a great discussion with about language learning and confidence. We always here “face your fears, speak with confidence and dont worry what others think.” But whats the difference between hearing those words and actually taking them to heart? Whats made the biggest difference in gaining confidence speaking English? Whats flipped the switch?
For me learning Mandarin, what flipped the switch was talking to a Chinese coffee shop owner every day. That interaction is what actually gave me confidence and practice in a low-stakes setting to improve my Mandarin.
What has flipped the switch for you?