Indeed, here are some practical exercises to help you start thinking in English:
Label Objects and Actions: As you go about your daily routine, try to label objects and actions in your environment in English. For instance, when you wake up, think “bed,” “alarm clock,” “brush teeth,” and so on.
Internal Monologue: Narrate your thoughts and actions in English. As you do tasks or make decisions, describe them to yourself in English. For example, “I’m hungry, so I’ll make breakfast. I’ll start with scrambled eggs.”
Describe Your Surroundings: Look around and describe your surroundings in English. Practice detailing the colours, shapes, and functions of the objects in the room you’re in.
Write in English: Keep a journal or diary in English. Write about your day, thoughts, or anything that comes to mind. The act of writing will help reinforce thinking in English.
Start thinking in English for a Set Time:
Dedicate a specific time each day to think exclusively in English. Start with short intervals, like 5 or 10 minutes, and gradually extend the duration as you become more comfortable.
Translate Thoughts: Take a moment to translate your thoughts from your native language to English. This exercise can help you become more aware of how to express yourself in English.
Use Sticky Notes: Place sticky notes on items around your home with their English names. For example, put a note with “door” on your bedroom door, “window” on the window, and so on.
Watch English Media: Regularly watch English-language TV shows, movies, or YouTube videos. Try to think in English while watching and anticipate what the characters might say.
Engage in English Conversations: Have conversations with English speakers or language partners. Engaging in discussions in English will naturally encourage you to think in the language.
Listen and Repeat: Listen to English audio materials, like podcasts or audiobooks, and pause to repeat sentences or phrases. This will help you internalize English patterns of speech and thought.
Set Goals in English: When setting personal or professional goals, do it in English. Please write down your goals and the steps you need to take to achieve them in English.
Immerse Yourself: Surround yourself with English as much as possible. Change your phone, computer, or social media settings to English. This constant exposure will encourage you to think in English more frequently.
Visualize in English: When daydreaming or visualizing future scenarios, do it in English. For example, if you’re planning a trip, imagine yourself booking flights and conversing with locals in English.
Dream in English: Some people report dreaming in their second language when they’ve reached a high level of proficiency. While you can’t control your dreams, it’s a sign that you genuinely think in English.
Remember, thinking in a new language is a gradual process that takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way. The more you immerse yourself in English and actively engage in these exercises, the easier it will become to think in English naturally.
NOTE: want to challenge you command on English?
Then let’s take a test click here.
