I've broke that barrier of being okay to be uncomfortable using Japanese!
This is our student Benjamin Nakashimo.
He said
"Since joining Japan Language Factory, I feel great about using Japanese regularly. The structured lessons and supportive environment helped me overcome the initial discomfort of speaking Japanese. My progress has been noticeable, especially with the positive feedback I receive from my son and others. The ongoing practice and encouragement from the instructors have been crucial in my journey. I highly recommend this program for anyone serious about learning Japanese."
He decided to broke his comfort zone.
Are you ready to get out of it?
Don’t Worry About Mistakes: Embracing the Journey to Fluent Japanese
Learning Japanese is a rewarding adventure, full of cultural richness and depth. But as with any new language, it can also be intimidating, especially when speaking. Many learners worry about making mistakes, but embracing these missteps can be one of the most powerful ways to progress. Here’s why you should be comfortable with uncomfortable situations and why every mistake you make brings you closer to fluency.
1. Mistakes Are Proof That You’re Learning
Imagine learning to ride a bike; falling a few times is part of the process. The same goes for speaking Japanese. Each mistake is a valuable lesson that helps you understand what sounds right and what doesn’t. When you stumble on pronunciation or grammar, you’re actually developing the muscle memory needed to get it right next time. Remember, fluency doesn’t come from speaking perfectly every time—it comes from learning continuously.
2. Japanese People Appreciate Your Efforts
When you’re speaking with native Japanese speakers, don’t worry about being perfect. Most people are understanding and appreciative when they see that you’re trying to speak their language. Your effort, more than your accuracy, creates a positive impression and often leads to encouragement, friendly corrections, or even helpful explanations that deepen your understanding. Japanese people typically respect the courage it takes to try, especially as Japanese has nuances that even native speakers find challenging!
3. Embrace the Challenge of Uncomfortable Situations
Learning to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations is essential, not just in language learning but in life. Speaking Japanese in real conversations—knowing you might make mistakes—pushes you to face those little challenges. Each time you navigate a difficult conversation or clarify something in Japanese, you’re building confidence. The discomfort will fade over time, replaced by a sense of achievement and resilience.
4. Build Confidence by Using What You Know
Focus on speaking with the vocabulary and phrases you’ve already mastered. You don’t need a huge vocabulary to start having meaningful conversations; instead, practice speaking using the words and structures you’re comfortable with. As you improve, naturally expand your vocabulary and expressions. Taking small steps gives you a manageable way to grow in Japanese without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Mistakes Can Lead to Memorable Learning Moments
Some of the funniest and most memorable moments come from language slip-ups! Many Japanese learners remember the time they accidentally ordered something different or mixed up words, only to get a good laugh from their friends. These moments create stories and inside jokes, which help you bond with others and make the learning process fun.
6. Be Patient with Yourself
Remember that learning Japanese, or any language, is a marathon, not a sprint. Progress can feel slow, and it’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t go perfectly. Be patient and celebrate every small victory. Did you introduce yourself without hesitating? Managed to order in a restaurant? Asked for directions and understood the answer? These are wins that show growth.
7. Use Mistakes as a Tool for Growth
Instead of thinking of mistakes as failures, view them as feedback. Each time you make a mistake, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?” Taking note of these moments, whether by writing them down or mentally acknowledging them, will help you remember the correct form next time. This reflective approach turns each mistake into a stepping stone to fluency.
In the End, Keep Speaking!
Ultimately, the best way to learn Japanese is to keep speaking it. Seek out native speakers, join language exchange groups, or chat with friends learning Japanese. Surround yourself with the language, and remember that every awkward, uncomfortable moment is a part of your success story.
So, don’t worry about your mistakes. Embrace them, learn from them, and let them fuel your progress. Over time, you’ll find that those once-uncomfortable moments become comfortable, and you’ll be one step closer to confidently speaking Japanese.