Are you too embarrassed to speak Portuguese? Watch this quick video to help overcome the fear of speaking Portuguese.
Whenever you observe any resistance to opening your mouth and speaking Portuguese, just do this quick mental exercise.
Ask yourself what is the worst thing that could possibly happen? What is the worst reaction you could get from people if you spoke to them in your basic Portuguese? Maybe they laugh at you, make fun of you for stuttering, repeat the words you use incorrectly in a mocking tone.
Then they turn to everyone nearby and point at you and yell that you speak Portuguese like a monkey. That would really suck if they did that. This worst case scenario is never going to happen. The real reaction is going to be a lot more tame.
Most likely they will patiently stand there and try to communicate with you. Or they walk away. Or they find someone who understands you. Just remember that you’re talking to people and most people are good natured and helpful, especially in Brazil.
Don’t be held back by fear.
