For many Costa Ricans, speaking English feels like a big challenge — not because they don’t understand the words, but because fear gets in the way. You might worry about making mistakes, sounding “funny,” or not finding the right words. The good news? These fears are normal, and they can be overcome with the right mindset and strategies. Practice is the key!
In this article, we’ll explore why speaking English can feel intimidating, and give you practical tips to gain confidence and enjoy communicating in English, both in Costa Rica and beyond.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
Why Costa Ricans Feel Nervous Speaking English
- Fear of Making Mistakes
In Costa Rica, we often value politeness and correctness in conversation. That can make us nervous when we’re not 100% sure our grammar or pronunciation is perfect. - Limited Practice Opportunities
Outside of work in tourism, multinational companies, or English classes, there aren’t always many places to practice. Without regular speaking, confidence can fade. - Comparison to Native Speakers
When you compare your English to someone from the U.S. or the U.K., it’s easy to feel like you’ll never measure up. But remember: your goal is communication, not perfection.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
How to Overcome the Fear
1. Focus on Communication, Not Perfection
Many English learners focus on perfection when they should be focusing on communication. English is a tool for connection, not a test you must pass every time you open your mouth. The moment you focus on expressing ideas instead of worrying about mistakes, you’ll feel more relaxed. So, stop worrying about making mistakes. Making mistakes is part of the learning process.
Tip: If someone understands your meaning, you’ve succeeded — even if your grammar wasn’t perfect.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
2. Practice in Low-Pressure Situations
Many English learners wait until they have a job interview before they practice English and then they get stressed out wanting to pass it. Instead of waiting for a “big moment” (like a job interview or meeting a tourist), create small speaking opportunities every week. This is where you´ll need to research and ask people where these take place.
Examples in Costa Rica:
- Ask for directions in English when visiting a tourist spot like Manuel Antonio.
- Order your coffee at a café in English, especially in tourist areas.
- Join a local English conversation group — many exist in San José and online.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
3. Reframe Mistakes as Progress
Every mistake is proof you are practicing. If you never make mistakes, it means you’re not pushing yourself enough.
Costa Rican perspective: Think of speaking English like learning to surf in Jacó — you’ll fall many times before you ride the wave smoothly.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
4. Use the “3x Rule” for New Words
If you learn a new word, try to use it three times the same day. This repetition locks it into your memory and boosts your confidence to use it again later. There is an old saying that says, ¨if you don´t use, you´ll lose it¨. It´s very true. Try using the vocabulary word or phrase.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
5. Surround Yourself with English Daily
Even in Costa Rica, you can immerse yourself in English:
- Watch Netflix, TikTok shorts or YouTube videos in English (with or without subtitles).
- Change your phone’s language to English.
- Listen to English-language podcasts while driving or walking.
- Find groups on Facebook with native English speakers.
The main thing is that if you really want to learn English, you have to do these things. It´s not going to just happen by attending English classes.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
6. Get Feedback from a Native Speaker
Sometimes the fear comes from not knowing if you’re “saying it right.” Regular feedback from a native speaker can correct small errors and give you the reassurance you need to speak with confidence. This is exactly what we focus on at Unlimited English.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
7. Practice with Tourists in a Friendly Setting
Many Costa Rican tourist spots — like Tamarindo, Monteverde, and La Fortuna — attract English speakers who are usually friendly and patient. Asking for directions, recommending places, or simply saying “Welcome to Costa Rica!” can be a low-pressure way to practice.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
8. Volunteer at Tourist or Community Events
Events like marathons, beach clean-ups, or local fairs often have international visitors. Offering to help, give information, or guide people lets learners practice naturally while doing something positive.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
9. Join a Language Exchange (“Intercambio”)
Many cafés in San José, Heredia, and coastal towns host intercambio de idiomas nights. You speak English for part of the time and Spanish for the rest. This creates a supportive, balanced environment where both people are learners.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
10. Start a “One English Day” Challenge
Once a week, choose a day to communicate only in English with a friend, co-worker, or family member who’s learning too. Even if you have to pause to think or look up words, the constant exposure helps reduce fear.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
11. Learn Useful “Survival Phrases” First
Sometimes the fear comes from worrying you’ll get stuck mid-sentence. Memorizing quick, flexible phrases like “Could you repeat that, please?” or “How do you say…?” gives learners a safety net so they don’t freeze.
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
12. Role-Play Common Situations
Practicing in class is good, but making it relevant to Costa Rica makes it stick. For example:
- Ordering at a soda that serves tourists
- Giving a tour of your town
- Explaining a local dish like gallo pinto
How to Get Over the Fear of Speaking English
In conclusion, many Costa Ricans already understand a lot of English from school, songs, and TV. Many of the English learners can read and write, but that can´t speak. This is a reminder that learners already have a foundation can make speaking feel less intimidating. Speaking English in Costa Rica doesn’t have to be stressful. The more you practice in real situations, the faster your confidence will grow. Remember, communication is about connecting — not performing perfectly.
At Unlimited English, we help Costa Rican professionals and students gain the confidence to speak with ease through practical conversation and real-world scenarios with native speakers. If you’re ready to stop feeling nervous and start speaking freely, we’re here to help. Our professors are certified native English speakers from Canada, the United States, England, and the United Kingdom. If you´d like more information about the academy, please contact us by filling out our newsletter form or by sending us a Whatsapp message. We look forward to hearing from you!
