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What Teaching English Taught Me

Weekly Topic: When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

Tim Certified English Coach

 Why Did I Became a Teacher?
Motivation / Career / Learning
The simple answer is...
 

I became a teacher because I love seeing people grow in confidence. When you speak another language, new worlds and opportunities open up to you. Getting to share in these experiences with students is why I teach English. It's a unique and highly rewarding opportunity. 

This week we're taking revenge and asking Tim a question:
When and why did you decide to become a teacher?
My story
 

I started teaching English in my early twenties. At first, it was “just a job” - I had just finished university and needed work… but it quickly became something I genuinely enjoyed. I liked helping students go from “I can’t say anything” to “I can actually communicate!”. I was able to see students achieve their goals: whether it was getting their dream job or assisting them with passing tests (for visas, university entry, etc.)

Over time, I noticed something important: students don’t only want “correct English.” They want English that feels natural — English they can use in real life. That’s what pushed me to keep improving as a teacher and to keep building better lesson materials.

So, what made you stay and continue your English teaching career?
  • I enjoy “progress moments” — when something finally clicks for a student. You can see the lightbulb appear in real-time. 
  • I like real communication — not textbook answers, but practical English for life and work. I felt bad for students. They wanted to communicate and experience English but were limited to old-fashioned, grammar-based textbooks. 
  • I like building confidence — many students are capable, but they feel nervous or stuck. Seeing students take that first - most difficult - step of taking a risk and using English is very rewarding. 
Background note: I studied Japanese at university so I know what it's like studying languages in a boring, academic context. I really started to love Japanese when I started using the language - both with my friends and at work. How we learn a language determines our motivation and drive. 
What is Your Teaching Philosophy? 
 
When teaching, I make sure to always follow these three things:
  • Safe and supportive — students can always make mistakes without embarrassment. That's how we grow. 
  • Practical and natural — we practice English you can use immediately. Nothing that is going to sound unnatural or make you sound like a walking dictionary. 
  • Clear feedback — you always leave with something concrete to improve. Goals motivate us to try harder and give us a sense of accomplishment when we complete them. 
Useful English: 
 

Here are simple templates you can use. Try making your own answer using one.

Beginner
  • I decided to become a ______ because I like helping people.
  • I became a _____ when I was ___ years old.
  • I like _____ because it’s rewarding.
Intermediate (more natural)
  • What made me choose _______ was seeing students improve.
  • I realized _________ was right for me when I saw a student gain confidence.
  • I stuck with ______ because I enjoy the challenge and the variety.
Advanced 
  • I didn’t plan to become a _________ at first, but I grew to love the work.
  • The turning point for me was realizing I could help people change their lives through language.
  • What keeps me motivated is helping students communicate more naturally in real situations.
Mini-dialogues
 
Small Talk:
A: “So, what do you do?”
B: “I’m an English teacher.”
A: “Nice! Why did you decide to become a teacher?”
B: “Honestly, I love seeing students become more confident. It’s really rewarding.”
Professional:
A: “What led you into teaching?”
B: “I started in my early twenties, and I realized I really enjoyed helping people communicate.”
A: “What keeps you in it?”
B: “Progress. When a student finally speaks naturally in a real situation — that’s the best part.”
Challenge Corner
 

Try answering each question. Frist, keep it simple — then make it more natural.

Write your answers:
Level 1: “I decided to become a teacher because ________.”
Level 2: “What made me choose teaching was ________.”
Level 3: “I didn’t plan to become a teacher at first, but ________.”
Want feedback on your English?
 

If you write your answer (or share it in a lesson), I’ll help you make it sound natural, confident, and “you.” We can also practice follow-up questions so you can handle real conversations smoothly.

Book a lesson and let’s practice real, natural English together!

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This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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