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Beating Speaking Anxiety

Intermediate level

How to celebrate your progress

Episode 260303 / 03 Mar 2026

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The fear of not getting better 

Often when we start learning a language, progress is fast and noticeable because you start from zero, and then anything you learn is obvious. But once we reach a good level, it's harder to notice your progress. This is what we call the 'intermediate plateau'. It's also very common to have a great level in terms of your vocabulary and what you can understand, but still have trouble speaking. Speaking anxiety may be holding you back. 

Try these tips

  • Firstly, it's important to recognise how far you've come already. What can you do now that you weren’t able to before?
  • Instead of studying more bits of language, try to actually use English to enjoy your hobbies and interests. That way you can see the real results of your hard work. 
  • Be clear about your future goals. Decide what you want to achieve, then make a clear plan for how to get there.

Next

Learn more from experts and learners in the podcast epsiode:

Anxiety cover pod ep7

Discover the latest programmes from BBC Learning English. 

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Email us

Do you have experience with English speaking anxiety? What do you think of this series? Send us an email to learningenglish@bbc.co.uk and tell us all about it. 

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