Everyone wants to feel as if they are pronouncing the English language the right way.  Listen, there is no right or wrong way.  There is a thing called practice that will allow you as the learner to improve on how others understand you.  That’s all.  Don’t feel embarrassed, do not let others give you the anxiety that you don’t need.  Let’s work together and focus on improving your pronunciation.

I gave myself the homework of learning a new language myself.  I started learning Portuguese a couple of years ago.  Now, I probably would be completely fluent if I would practice on a daily basis how to communicate and speak Portuguese.   Guess what? I don't practice, so I am not fluent.  If your goal is to be fluent, then you must practice.

Do you practice English with native speakers?  If you feel embarrassed or scared, stop.  There is no improving if you are not doing it.  Have fun and find ways to practice that will get you closer to your goal, and that is speaking fluently with a native speaker and when you go on vacation.

I’m going to share with you three simple rules that will help you improve.  I gathered these rules by doing my research and helping those that needed the help; I realized that everyone learns differently so, I understand if you don’t feel if one of these rules doesn’t apply to you.  But, take the time to evaluate it and give it a try.  The rules are 1. Learn complete phrases, not single words, 2. practice listening 3. Speak English often, don’t be afraid of making mistakes.

1. Learn Complete Phrases
We are all used to hearing a vocabulary word and the definition.  How about trying to learn an entire phrase instead? Yes, you can listen to a phrase and capture the meaning of the sentence depending on the situation.  Pretend you are in a restaurant and you want to eat a cheeseburger, you would learn the entire phrase, “I will have the cheeseburger.”  Instead of learning just the word cheeseburger, you just learned the full phrase.  It saves you time and helps you speak with fluency.


2.  Practice Listening
Learn how to listen to different rhythms, every language has its rhythm.  Notice that British English has a different rhythm than American English.  Just like your mother tongue, you have your rhythm.  If you are listening to individuals speaking English, look for new vocabulary and different phrases.  Always carry a notebook with you to jot things down.  It’s fun and very useful.

3.  Speak English Often
Now you have picked up some new phrases, and you are practicing your listening skills.  Now it’s time to speak English.  Just go for it, do not worry about making mistakes.  It is rewarding when you start to speak English and people are understanding you.  Practice, practice, practice.

In summary, speaking English will help you with many things, like eating out, your job and dealing with clients.  Have fun and don’t forget to practice.

Are you currently practicing speaking English in public?  Let me know by commenting below.