The Disadvantages of 1st-language-English
In a world so obviously advantageous to 1st-lanugage-English speakers, you may not know there are disadvantages to being a 1st-language-English speaker.
Really!
1st-language-English breeds complacency, sheltering us from the rich ways of seeing, being and connecting with our world.
You may not want to learn a language, but when you do, it changes you.
Language isn’t just words, it comes wrapped in culture.
Wait Up! I Don’t Like British Culture!
If that is what is putting you off improving your English, you don’t need to let ‘Britishness’ into your heart.
Read our Best Tips to Enjoy English, Without Embracing Britishness.
Second-Language Hell
I certainly did take my first-language English privilege for granted before I worked in a second language (Brussels/Paris/France 2004-2012).
It was France where I lost the ability to show up as myself and grew used to being only partially present in any conversation.
That silence became part of who I was (as did the frustration of feeling like that).
I coped/survived and lived rich days, but I certainly didn’t flourish.
I learned how hellish it feels not to be able to share your essence with the world.
Until I lost my 1st-language privilege, I hadn’t realised the extent language competencies are your ability to do so.
My Second-Language Experience is How I Help You
I’m reminded of my 1st-language English privilege helping my clients navigate English (2004-2025).
They don’t love English – it’s an obstacle to doing what they need to do.
But I can make gaining English skills interesting, offer security to their risk-taking and share the excitement of the journey.
I can reach a person’s essence, whether a beginner or advanced – and help them share it with more and more joy and confidence.
(And great results).
You Don’t Need to Love Your 2nd Language
But you do need to love who you are in it.
That’s key to long-term, sustainable language acquisition and using it confidently.
Open Eyes – For Life
1st-language English privilege aren’t divine or meretricious, just a consequence of colonialism. (As a Scot, I know both about being an invading nation and having your culture stolen).
Only by realising this can one lose the disadvantages of 1st-language-English, get humble, and find the world a richer place.
Today I needed to spend time on live chat about migrating my web hosting.
Dull (or was it?)
Further Information
If you are looking for English coaching:
Discover our English Language Learning Holidays and our Online Coaching.
Get our help finding your next Online English Teacher
Visit a Directory of English Teachers
