What is confidence?

"I need more confidence when I speak English." This is the first thing non-native speakers tell me when I ask how I can help them.

So, I want to ask you: What does confidence actually mean?

For me, it means having an inner belief in yourself and that you can do it - whatever "it" may be.

I believe that most self-doubt comes from childhood trauma, bad experiences in school, or personal challenges in life. In my case, it was all of these.

Growing up, I faced emotional abuse and turmoil that made me believe I wasn't worthy as a human being. This led to a constant battle with insecurity, negative self-talk, and never feeling good enough. For years, I staggered along trying to find my way.

I didn't socialize much because the voice told me that people would not like me, so I didn’t even try to make friends.

I wanted to become a singer, but the voice told me that was impossible because I wasn’t good enough. I feared being judged so I kept my dream a secret and only sang for my cat.

I wanted to get my official teaching credentials and become an elementary teacher, but that voice told me I would only fail the test so I shouldn't even try.

I wanted to have a job that I loved and could be creative, but I settled for one that was boring and I hated.

After years of sitting there, doing my mundane job day after day, a sudden realization struck me like lightning. I became aware of this voice in my head. I heard it loud and clear, filling me with self-doubt and convincing me that I wasn't good enough.

I started asking myself questions. Is it really true that I'm no good at anything? What have I tried?

Is it really true that I can't become a singer? Who told me I couldn't sing? No one. I only sang for my cat, so how could anyone even know?

Who said I couldn't have a job that's exciting and creative? I haven't even tried to find one. Where is the proof?

Asking these questions was my reality check. It was like a light bulb went off in my head. I realized I had been holding myself back in all aspects of life based on unfounded beliefs. Slowly, but surely, I found my inner strength and believed in myself.

Discovering my inner strength became the key that unlocked the door to yet another life-changing challenge.

At the age of 35, with only two suitcases, a big backpack, and my guitar, I made the bold decision to move to a new country and left everything behind me.

Although I struggled to learn and communicate in a foreign language and had many setbacks, with each step forward, my confidence and self-belief that I could do it grew.

My journey taught me the power of self-belief.

So why do so many people struggle to speak English with confidence?

Confidence isn't just about mastering the language; it's the inner belief that you can do it, whatever “it” may be!

Believe in yourself and you can break the language barrier and unlock your full potential!

As your English coach, I’m here to help you not only excel in your English skills, but also empower you to believe in yourself and step forward with confidence!

Take the next step!? Reach out, and we can discuss how we can work together.

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Cheering for you,

Your English Coach, Loretta