To learn a language fluently, a person typically needs about 1,000 hours of practice. While this may seem intimidating, you can improve your language abilities by incorporating a few steps into your daily routine.

 

1. Make mistakes

 

It is completely normal and a little scary to speak in a new language, but everyone makes mistakes! If you are too worried about making errors, such as using the wrong tense or pronouncing a word wrong, you will never speak fluently. Don’t overthink your next sentence. Try changing your mindset by speaking as naturally as possible.

 

2. Immerse yourself

 

One of the best ways to improve your English skills is to fully immerse yourself in the language. You can take a vacation or participate in a study abroad program in an English-speaking country but if this is not an option, you could make English speaking friends in your community. They will be able to help you develop your vocabulary and can even provide you feedback in areas you are struggling with.  

 

3. Avoid directly translating

 

Many people’s first instinct when learning a new language is to try to translate from their native language into English. This is a mistake because a lot of words and phrases have no translation and can be misinterpreted incorrectly which could create confusing or inappropriate sentences.    

 

4. Exercise your mouth

 

Believe it or not, speaking English is a work-out! English uses a lot of mouth muscles and tongue positions that you may not be using in your native language. By practicing the different mouth shapes of English sounds, you’ll be able to speak with better pronunciation.

 

5. Prioritize English

 

It is true what they say, if you don’t use English, you’ll lose it. By making English a priority in your life, you can easily include it in your everyday routine, reaching your goals quickly! You can read books and magazines, listen to podcasts, and watch movies in English. You can also change your computer and phone settings to English.

 

6. Memorize new vocabulary

 

If you are learning new vocabulary daily, you’ll be able to communicate about a wide variety of topics fluently. You can label objects around your house, create flashcards, or play online English memorization games that will expand your vocabulary. Repetition leads to retention, so use a new word 7-12 times in order to remember it. You can even have a word of the day that you practice in conversation.

 

7. Take classes

 

While speaking to others and teaching yourself English is helpful, the best way to achieve fluency is by taking classes. You’ll be able to track your progress and know what you still need to work on. You can do this in a group or study individually, having your teacher personalize your classes.

Whether you want to be fluent in English to study abroad, travel, or to simply achieve a personal goal, by adjusting your lifestyle to include English, you’ll be speaking like a local in no time!