Hi Franco

I agree with your friend. I remember the first time I spoke to my husband. He liked my accent and would get nervous when I spoke. So, to make him comfortable I mostly asked questions to encourage him to speak, so he would not feel as nervous. It didn’t put me off that he was nervous, it just meant that he liked me and that was nice being liked enough for someone to be nervous.

When I am nervous, there is another way that is helpful to reframe it. I am excited because something good might come of this.

I also like to prepare when I am nervous. No caffeine or sugar before. Sometimes I drink chamomile tea. Shake my body for 30 seconds to a couple of minutes (longer is more effective). Do 10 big yawns. Massage the base of the skull and back of the neck. Splash cold water on my face. These things are science based and very helpful for regulating the nervous system and calming down quickly.

I like your idea of discussing Berlin. It was a good idea to prepare some conversation to make you less nervous too. Well done on staying positive and preparing to give things another try. 😊

Love and best wishes! ❤️🙏