When learning Japanese abroad, a large majority of the process is based on reading/writing/comprehension and as far as I can tell, many people progress to very high levels (N2 or N1) before they even begin to use the spoken language (usually through language partner apps, sometimes programs in Japan or just moving there). I think it's pretty expected for speaking to be challenging at first, especially earlier levels where the language knowledge is not as deeply ingrained and intuitive. I see many people saying they had trouble at first, then had this sudden moment of realization that "I'm actually communicating in Japanese!" after which it became more natural.
I'm curious, how did you begin using spoken language and at what point in the learning journey? Did you make any efforts to reach that point (practicing with apps, finding communities and friends, etc)?
by Xinzuu