How to be yourself in English
How to be yourself in English Heading link
Have you ever felt like you’re not yourself in English? Maybe you feel like you tell better jokes in your first language. Maybe you’re really good at graphic design, but you don’t know how to communicate that part of yourself in English. Did you know that learning another language is almost like learning a new personality? It’s normal to feel like you’re not yourself in another language.
It’s Frustrating
Some areas that might make you feel uncomfortable are when you’re trying to be polite to teachers or supervisors. You might also see this when you’re trying to make jokes with someone else who speaks English and they just don’t understand you. You might have some really good ideas about an assignment, but when your teacher asks you, you just freeze and can’t explain all the details of what’s in your mind.
This can all be so frustrating, right? I also felt this way when I learned a new language right after college. I did some things to help me feel more like myself, and I wanted to pass on this information to you. What are some ways you can learn to be yourself in a new language? Here are some helpful tips:
Be Patient
Be patient in finding friends in your new language. Your friends help you know who you are. You need good friends in English who let you be yourself.
Find a Group
Find a group on campus that does the things you’re interested in. For example, if you like playing basketball, find a group that plays basketball at the gym together, or join an intramural team. Learn how to use English in that environment.
Take risks
You can’t grow in your new language personality if you don’t use your new language. Try out some phrases you hear in new contexts with new people. Make a joke if you want! See what happens. Remember, nothing is forever, so if you mess up, you’ll have another chance, soon!
Contact Us
If you try some of these tips, let us know how it went. Feel free to email Anna at tutorium@uic.edu!
Language learning is culture learning – be curious.