I've been working on learning Spanish for a couple of years in my spare time and I'm so self-conscious when I try to speak it. I stumble over conjugations and mispronounce words.

Today I *needed* to have a Spanish-only conversation with someone who didn't speak English and it felt like walking on hot coals the whole time.

Does this ever get easier? 🧠

@major
I'm sorry to say, but as long as you care and worry about being perfect, it will never be easy. Just let it go and enjoy the conversation.

@badnetmask

@major The only way to get there is to submerse yourself. The people that judge a person for not speaking the language perfectly instead of valuing the effort aren't people worth having the conversation with in the first place. Do your best, have all the conversations you can have, and revel in the flavor of the language.

@deoan Good point!

@major I have been trying to learn English since I was 12 years old. I am 47 now. I have used English at work on a daily basis for 18 years, and it is hot coals every time. Over the years, it improves, but only slightly. It is much better in a pub, especially in the late hours. Then I speak very fluently. At least, I think so. :)

@mirek I appreciate you sharing your experience. Perhaps I should have a beer first!

@major it gets better the more frequently you do it, so stay the course. :)

@major Your spanish won't be perfect but neither is mine! Also my English is not perfect, not even close to perfect and I use it in my job every day!!

I think it is fine :)

@major Also, if you ever want to practice your Spanish let me know. I am open for video call when you want.

@ffmancera I appreciate the offer!

@mosafowiki I really like Spanish so far because it opens the door to talking to a lot more people near me (I live in south Texas, close to Mexico). At first, I found myself doing a lot of translation in my head, but lately, it's almost like my brain thinks in two tracks simultaneously -- English and Spanish -- and I can pick which track I want to follow.