Mindset

So the other day, I noticed something again.It’s not new, but I keep observing it.My wife saw a lizard on the wall and just froze. She didn’t scream or anything, but I could see it on her face — discomfort. A kind of fear.And honestly, this happens with a lot of people I know — my sisters, friends, even a few grown men I’ve met.A lizard comes into the room… and the energy changes.People either stop talking, or they leave the room, or they keep looking at the ceiling like a sniper is up there. And you know what’s funny? That lizard isn’t even doing anything.It’s just there — stuck on the wall, not even moving half the time.It’s not poisonous. It’s not strong. It’s not even loud.Most of the time, it won’t touch you. And I think scientifically, it’s not dangerous at all. But still — people hate it.It makes them uncomfortable. Now here’s the connection I made — this is how a lot of people react to speaking English in public. That fear. That sudden silence.That looking around nervously.That “let me avoid this situation” behaviour. Same energy. The English language is not attacking you.Nobody’s forcing you to speak like a native.It’s not a gun to your head.But still — when it comes near, you freeze.You avoid eye contact. You stay quiet.You leave the conversation. Not because it’s deadly. But because it feels uncomfortable. And I’m not judging anyone.I completely respect people who have fear of lizards — I have my own fears too.I’ve seen animals that I personally don’t want to go near.We all have our things. But this observation made me realise something — maybe we give too much power to something that’s not actually powerful. The lizard is not stronger than you.And public speaking in English is also not stronger than you.Both just feel scary… until you sit with it for a bit.Observe it.Realise it’s just sitting there. Not attacking. And slowly, you realise — you’re okay. You can stay in the room.You can speak the sentence.You can deal with it. Maybe not perfectly. But you don’t have to run from it either.

Fluency isn’t a gift you’re born with—it’s a skill you earn. In the Confluent Speaker Framework (MKPF), we know that Mindset starts everything. When you believe fluency is a craft you can learn, Knowledge, Practice, and Feedback fall into place. Let’s bust the myth of the “natural speaker” and embrace your own journey. 1. No One Is Born Fluent You’ve likely met people who “seem” to speak effortlessly. But beneath every smooth sentence lies years of work: mistakes, nervous moments, and small breakthroughs. Fluency is like building a house—you lay one brick at a time. No one wakes up in a finished home. 2. Honor Your Unique Pace Everyone learns at their own speed. Some speak quickly, others take time to choose words. The goal isn’t to race past someone else; it’s to grow at a pace that feels right for you. Like the tortoise in the old story, steady steps win the day. 3. Celebrate Your Own Milestones Comparing yourself to others only steals your joy. Instead, look back at how far you’ve come: Each milestone is yours alone—own it, celebrate it. 4. Growth Takes Time—Focus on the Process Building fluency is like planting a tree. You don’t judge a baby sapling by the height of an oak. You water it, give it sunlight, and watch its roots grow deep. Likewise, practice every day, and your confidence will strengthen. 5. Behind Every “Natural” Speaker Is Hard Work What you see on the surface—smooth speech and clear pronunciation—is only part of the story. Every fluent speaker has faced: They didn’t avoid these challenges; they worked through them. 6. It’s Your Journey, Not a Race Fluency isn’t about being the best—it’s about being your best. Some reach a comfortable level in months, others in years. The secret isn’t talent; it’s resilience—the choice to keep going, day after day. 7. There Is No Instant Fluency No one becomes fluent overnight. Top speakers started just like you—stumbling over words, making mistakes, feeling lost. What made the difference was showing up consistently, even when progress felt slow. 8. Mistakes Are Stepping Stones Every error you make is an invitation to learn. When you slip on a word or pause mid-sentence, you discover what to fix next time. Embrace mistakes—they are proof you’re pushing your limits. 9. Comfort in Uncertainty True fluency isn’t about perfect grammar. It’s about being okay with not knowing every word and still speaking with confidence. When you accept uncertainty, you free yourself to communicate naturally. 10. Choose Progress Over Perfection Perfection is a mirage; progress is real. Instead of chasing an ideal of a flawless speaker, notice each small win—the conversation you carried, the new phrase you nailed, the question you asked. Progress looks different for everyone, and each step moves you closer to confident fluency. Your Next StepBelieve that every small action builds your craft. Speak one new sentence today. Celebrate your mistakes, learn from them, and know that each word brings you closer to the speaker you want to become. In MKPF, your mindset is the spark—ignite it, and watch your fluency flourish.

Belief is the voice that says, “You can speak. You just need practice.”Doubt is the voice that says, “Your English isn’t good enough. Don’t even try.” Both voices are real.Both will walk with you. But here’s what you need to know:Belief builds fluency. Doubt delays it.And the truth is—you don’t have to be free from doubt to begin.You just have to act in belief, even with doubt sitting beside you. In the Confluent Speaker journey, we don’t wait to feel confident.We speak first, and confidence follows.We make mistakes, and learning follows.We practice daily, and fluency follows. So when doubt says:“What if they judge you?”You reply:“What if I grow instead?” When doubt says:“Your grammar isn’t perfect.”You say:“I’m not aiming for perfect. I’m aiming for progress.” Fluency is not about flawless speech.It’s about flow. About freedom. About expressing yourself clearly, even when your English isn’t textbook-perfect. So hold on to belief. Even if it’s small today.Even if it’s just 5% belief and 95% fear.Let that 5% speak.Let that 5% practice.Let that 5% grow. Because inside you, there is already a Confluent Speaker.And every word you speak moves you one step closer.

I’ve always said this — I don’t feed you, I teach you how to cook. That’s been my approach since Day 1. Whether it’s my articles, my videos, or even my speaking practice sessions — the goal has never been to make you depend on me. My goal is to give you the tools, the mindset, and the systems so that you can become an independent learner. That’s what the Confluent Speaker journey is about. And now, with AI — especially tools like ChatGPT — the game has completely shifted. Earlier, you needed a teacher to explain grammar. Now, ChatGPT can explain the same grammar point in 10 different ways — until you understand it in your own way. Earlier, you had to wait for a class to get feedback. Today, AI tools can give you examples, corrections, practice conversations — instantly. But here’s the truth: you can learn more… or you can confuse yourself more. Because AI doesn’t solve everything. It’s powerful, yes — but only if you know how to use it. Only if you know how to ask, how to apply, how to reflect. That’s where self-learning comes in. I’ve always encouraged independence.Even in my sessions, I make you talk. I give you feedback on the go. I help you break your beliefs. I push you to see yourself differently. But I’ve also told you — don’t stop there. Learn how to learn. Build your own system. Explore your own path. Use everything I teach you as a starting point — not as a crutch. That’s why I’ve built resources, handbooks, story-based articles, audio content — not just to teach, but to make you think and take charge. In India, we face two big problems.A lack of highly trained English teachers — I’ve seen this up close.(I myself was a waiter working in weddings and parties in and around Mumbai. No fancy degree. I learned by doing. I still do.)Learners don’t know where to start. Especially in small towns and villages.I’ve spoken to so many — they have the fire. They have the desire.But they’re stuck. They don’t know what to do, how to begin, or where to go.So they wait — for a course, for money, for a teacher.But here’s what I say: don’t wait. Start today.Use free tools.Use your voice.Record yourself.Talk to ChatGPT.Ask questions.Repeat answers.Get clarity.Make mistakes.And then learn from them. Once you start learning on your own, then invest in a course that takes you beyond. But don’t wait for the course to begin the journey. This is the future.AI + Self-learning + Real-world speaking.That’s the new model. You are not weak. You are not behind. You are already fluent to some degree.Now it’s about progress. Now it’s about ownership. I’m still here to guide you. But I’m not here to carry you.Because you’re capable of walking your own path — with power, with confidence, with clarity. Welcome to the age of independent learning.It’s not just possible — it’s necessary. Let’s build it — together.Your coach,Ziaur Rehman

What stops most people from becoming fluent speakers? It’s not a lack of vocabulary, grammar, or accent. It’s hesitation. It’s stopping. Fluency isn’t something you reach after years of perfecting your English. It’s something you build in motion. But most learners do the opposite. They wait. They overthink. They pause too much. And every time they stop, they lose momentum. This is where the Momentum Mindset changes the game. Fluency is Not a Stage—It’s a Flow Most people believe fluency comes in levels. “First, I’ll learn all the rules. Then I’ll practice a little. After that, I’ll feel confident.” But that’s not how real learning works. Dr. Stephen Krashen’s Input Hypothesis suggests that language is acquired not by memorizing rules but by engaging with language in real, meaningful ways. Learners who stay in motion—speaking, making mistakes, and self-correcting—develop fluency faster than those who passively study. Language acquisition is also deeply tied to procedural memory, the kind of memory that helps you ride a bicycle or drive a car. You don’t learn these skills by reading about them; you learn by doing. The same applies to speaking. Momentum Mindset is about building fluency through continuous engagement, not waiting until everything feels perfect. What is the Momentum Mindset? Momentum Mindset is the belief that fluency is built by staying in motion—by speaking, thinking, and engaging with English continuously, without hesitation. It’s about training your brain to prioritise speed over perfection, action over doubt. Think of it like cycling. If you keep moving, balance is easy. If you stop, you wobble and fall. Most learners struggle with fluency because they stop too often—pausing to correct themselves, hesitating before speaking, or waiting for the “right” words. But fluency isn’t about finding the perfect words. It’s about keeping the conversation going, even when it’s not perfect. A Momentum Mindset shifts your focus from correctness to consistency. The more you speak, the better you get. The more you hesitate, the harder it becomes. Simple. Why Do Learners Stop? The Hesitation Loop Most learners get stuck in what I call The Hesitation Loop: This cycle is reinforced by fear of judgment, a common psychological barrier. Research on the affective filter hypothesis shows that anxiety, low confidence, and fear of making mistakes block language acquisition. The higher the stress, the harder it is to recall words and structure sentences. Momentum Mindset breaks this loop by shifting the focus from perfection to progress. How to Apply the Momentum Mindset Fluency is a Moving Train—Get On It Most learners wait for fluency to “happen.” But that’s like standing on the platform while the train speeds away. You have to jump on the train while it’s moving. If you stop, hesitation wins. But if you keep speaking, fluency is inevitable. Fluency isn’t a destination. It’s continuous movement. Keep speaking. Keep moving. Keep the momentum alive. Your coach,Ziaur Rehman

You don’t need a classroom, a book, or a guide,English is waiting—right by your side. In whispers, in movies, in songs that you hear,In thoughts that you think, it’s already near. Not in perfection, not in delay,But in small steps you take each day. Speak to yourself, let your words flow,Mistakes will come, but let them go. Fluency isn’t a place you arrive,It’s how you use it—how you strive. So read, so listen, so dare to try,You’re already closer—just reach for the sky. 🌍✨

Have you ever looked at someone speaking fluent English and thought, “I wish I could speak like that”? Or perhaps you’ve felt stuck, believing that without perfect grammar or a native accent, you’ll never measure up. If that sounds familiar, let me tell you this: English is not a trophy to display; it’s a tool to use. And like any tool, its value comes from how well you use it to build, connect, and grow. Think about it. A carpenter doesn’t keep a hammer to show off its shine. They use it to create something meaningful. Similarly, English is meant to help you express your ideas, share your stories, and connect with others. It’s not about showing the world how perfect your grammar is; it’s about communicating effectively and confidently. This is exactly what I teach in my sessions also. The emphasis is on progress, not perfection. Every learner is already fluent to some degree. Whether you can have a simple conversation or share your thoughts on complex topics, you’re already on the path. Your fluency grows when you use English actively—not by treating it as a trophy to keep safe, but as a tool to engage with the world. Mindset: Stop Chasing Perfection The first step is understanding that fluency doesn’t mean speaking like a native speaker. Fluency means being able to express yourself with confidence. In one of my sessions, I met a gym trainer who felt insecure about their English. They knew all the exercises and could explain them perfectly in their native language but hesitated in English. When we shifted the focus from “perfect sentences” to “practical communication,” they started engaging clients in English effortlessly. It wasn’t about flawless grammar; it was about connecting with people. Knowledge: Practical, Not Theoretical Let’s face it—memorizing endless grammar rules or fancy vocabulary won’t make you fluent. What matters is applying what you learn in real situations. Imagine learning to ride a bike. Would you spend hours reading about it or just get on the bike and start pedaling? Fluency works the same way. During a recent session, a participant shared how they learned phrases from Mumbai’s billboards and railway announcements. Those phrases helped them navigate daily conversations, proving that fluency is built from practical, everyday knowledge. Feedback: Your Fastest Growth Tool Feedback isn’t criticism; it’s guidance. When you receive corrections on-the-go, you’re not being judged; you’re being supported. One of my learners—a lawyer—once said, “I’m so glad you corrected me while I was speaking. I’ll never forget that.” It’s these small adjustments that lead to big improvements. Practice: Speak First, Improve Later You don’t need to wait until you feel “ready” to speak. Readiness comes from speaking. One of the most common fears I see in learners is the fear of making mistakes. But here’s the truth: mistakes are stepping stones to growth. In my group sessions, I always encourage participants to speak first. Whether it’s a discussion on a trending topic or answering a simple question, the goal is to start talking. Real-time corrections and feedback make the process more effective—and less intimidating. The Journey, Not the Trophy So, the next time you feel tempted to see English as a status symbol or something to show off, remind yourself that it’s just a tool. And like any tool, its power lies in how you use it. Use it to tell your story. Use it to connect with others. Use it to achieve your dreams. The carpenter doesn’t get praised for the hammer they own but for the furniture they create. Likewise, your fluency will shine through the conversations you have and the connections you make—not the perfection you chase. Remember, you’re already fluent in your way. It’s time to build from there. English is not a trophy; it’s a tool. Let’s use it to create something extraordinary. Your coach,Ziaur Rehman

These rules are my promise to you:If you commit to this journey, I will take you beyond what you thought was possible. Together, we’ll build the kind of speaker the world cannot ignore.

I want to shift the way you think about fluency. Instead of seeing it as something far in the future, something you’ll achieve one day, start seeing it as a present reality. The truth is, you are already fluent. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you can express yourself in simple phrases. That’s fluency. And it’s your foundation. This mindset shift is a game changer. By recognizing that fluency exists at every stage, you stop feeling like it’s something to chase and start realizing that you’re already on the path. You can build on what you have, level up from where you are, and keep going. You don’t need perfect English to be fluent. You just need to speak with confidence, with the skills you’ve already developed. And then, step by step, you take it higher. From basic fluency to conversation fluency to professional and academic fluency, each level is just an upgrade, not a distant dream. This is what I want for you: to stop worrying about “how much more you need to do” and start appreciating where you are right now. Because right now, you’re already speaking—fluently. And that, my friend, is the first victory. Now, let’s find your level and level up: The Different Levels of Speaking Fluency: Level 1 – Basic FluencyAt this foundational level, you can effectively communicate basic needs and understand simple conversations. This is often referred to as “survival fluency” as it enables you to navigate everyday situations with limited language use. Level 2 – Conversational FluencyAt this stage, you are able to engage in everyday conversations about familiar topics. You may still make occasional errors in vocabulary or grammar, but you can express yourself and understand others in a variety of common scenarios. This level represents practical fluency in regular interactions. Level 3 – Social FluencyHere, you are comfortable in both casual and slightly formal conversations. You can comprehend humor, express opinions, and participate in discussions without significant hesitation. Social fluency enables you to engage in most types of social interactions without feeling restricted. Level 4 – Professional FluencyAt this level, you can manage more complex topics, deliver presentations, and use specialized language relevant to your field. While minor mistakes may occur, they do not impede effective, professional communication. This level is crucial for those aiming to succeed in the workplace or professional settings. Level 5 – Academic FluencyThis level signifies a high degree of fluency where you are able to discuss not only everyday topics but also abstract, theoretical, and academic concepts. You can understand and contribute to in-depth conversations, lectures, and debates on a variety of subjects. Level 6 – Native-Like FluencyAt the highest level of fluency, individuals can converse naturally on any topic, using idiomatic expressions, humor, and cultural references with ease. Achieving native-like fluency is challenging and typically the result of many years of immersion and practice. This represents the pinnacle of language mastery. From today, never say you want to become fluent. You are already fluent. You just need to level up. This shift in your perspective can be magical if you realize its potential. What is Your Current Fluency Level?