A few years ago, while researching how people improve their English, I discovered something surprising. Writing—even just a little—can make you a much better speaker.

On a normal day, we think of writing as separate from speaking. I used to think so, too.

But then I noticed something: when learners write in English regularly, even for a few minutes a day, they become more confident speaking.

Here’s my story:

One of my research participants, a German professional, wanted to feel confident speaking English during international business meetings. He was nervous about making mistakes.

Then I introduced him to this weird little trick:
Every morning, he spent five minutes writing in English. Just five! No rules, no pressure—he wrote about his day, his plans, or even random thoughts.

The twist? After a few weeks, he started noticing a difference in his meetings. Words came to him faster. Sentences felt easier. That “mental block” when speaking started to disappear.

It was just five minutes. A little writing turned into big speaking gains.

Here’s how you can try it:

1. Grab a notebook or open your notes app.
   No fancy tools required!
2. Set a timer for 5 minutes.
   Write anything. How’s your day? What do you want to accomplish? What’s your favourite film and why?
3. Keep it simple and consistent.
   Forget grammar perfection. This is about confidence, not correctness.

And the results? You’ll notice that when it’s time to speak, you’ll feel more prepared. Words will come more naturally, and that nervous “pause” will start to fade.

Writing builds confidence in your speaking, one sentence at a time.

Give it a try and tell me how it goes.

 

P.S. I wrote about the results of my research here. 

A few days ago, during a coaching session, a German CEO accidentally thanked me for the curse (instead of the course). And honestly? I couldn’t stop laughing 😂.

But the best part? These kinds of mix-ups happen all the time—and they’re absolute gold.

Let me share a few more gems I’ve heard over the years that still make me chuckle:

• “I want to be pregnant” (said very earnestly… by a male executive 😳. For context: ‘pregnant’ means ‘schwanger.’)
• “I became a coffee” (instead of: “I’ll have a coffee.” Instant transformation, anyone?)
• “Please control my work” (instead of: “Please check my work.” Imagine the HR department’s reaction to that email…)
• “I’m boring” (when they meant: “I’m bored.” The irony is almost too perfect!)

These moments aren’t just funny—they’re a reminder that making mistakes is a natural and necessary part of learning a language.

Even top-level executives—people who lead global teams and make high-stakes decisions—slip up sometimes.

And you know what? That’s okay.

In fact, I’d argue it’s better than okay.

These little linguistic mishaps are more than just mistakes; they’re connection points. They create opportunities to laugh, learn and bond with others. They remind us that language isn’t just about mastering rules or perfect pronunciation—it’s about communication, growth, and, yes, a little humour along the way.

So, to everyone learning English—or any other language—here’s my message:

• It’s not about being perfect.
• It’s about being understood.
• It’s about being brave enough to try.

So, go ahead. Speak up. Make mistakes. Mix up your words. Laugh about it. And know that every time you do, you’re getting one step closer to fluency.

Now, let’s make this fun: What’s the funniest English mistake you’ve made or heard?

(I see you hovering over that “Buy Now” button…)

Look, after 20+ years of teaching English to German business professionals, I’ve noticed something:

Most of my clients already have…

1. Premium subscriptions they forgot about.
2. Countless YouTube playlists saved.
3. Unused language exchange credits.
4. Grammar books collecting dust.
5. 3-4 unfinished online courses.
6. Multiple English learning apps.

Yet they still struggle with confidence in meetings.

Here’s the truth:

Another course won’t magically improve your English 👀

What you actually need is to:

1. Practise consistently.
2. Get real feedback.
3. Use what you already have.
4. Focus on speaking, not just learning.
5. Stop looking for the “perfect” solution

The shiny new course might look tempting, but…

Your current resources are probably enough.

Start using them. Today.

Remember: Taking action beats collecting courses. Always ✌️

P.S. If you’ve got unopened English learning materials, this is your sign to dust them off and actually use them.

P.P.S. Or time to join my free Speed Networking sessions!