My students and I often discuss what can be done outside of English lessons to improve  their English skills. I often recommend watching English movies, news, TV, etc. without subtitles. Of course, my students always say, “I can’t understand English movies without subtitles!” or “I watched CNN news in English, and I only understood a few words! I’m so bad at English.”

My advice: Don’t panic. Relax!

It’s ok if you don’t understand 100%. It’s ok even if you only understand 5%! Watching English TV and movies is all about “absorbing” the language. If you panic because you can’t understand, your brain effectively “switches off” and you can’t absorb any English. Instead, relax! Ignore discouragement, be confident and think positively.

Relax as you watch or listen to English movies and news. As you relax, you will begin to hear a few words you know. Little by little, you may even recognize phrases, expressions, or even full sentences! However, even if you only recognize one or two words, don’t panic. Keep watching English movies and TV every week, or every day if possible.

No one can go from 1% to 100% in a single day, so don't expect yourself to understand 100%! The important thing is: don't panic. As you relax and continue watching and listening, you will understand more and more. You might even surprise yourself!