The best way to reach near fluency is to combine consistent daily immersion with deliberate practice that targets your weak areas, while also using the language actively in real-life contexts. For someone at B2, the key is moving from understanding to automatic, comfortable production in professional and social settings. This means shifting from classroom-style learning to self-directed, intensive use of the language in your daily life.
At B2, you have a solid foundation. To push to C1 or C2, focus on three areas: expanding your vocabulary for nuanced topics (like your field of work, current events, and abstract ideas), improving your listening comprehension for fast or accented speech, and polishing your grammar for complex structures (e.g., subjunctive mood, passive voice, or subtle word order differences). A practical next step is to consume at least one hour of native-level content daily: news podcasts, TV shows without subtitles, or audiobooks on topics you care about. While doing this, actively note down new phrases and look them up, then try to use them the same day in conversation or writing.
For speaking, seek out opportunities for extended, unscripted conversation. If you are in the military, you might find colleagues who can give you honest feedback on your pronunciation or word choice. Alternatively, use language exchange apps or hire a tutor for weekly sessions focused on your specific needs (e.g., interview preparation, professional vocabulary). Record yourself speaking on a topic for 2-3 minutes, then listen back and correct errors. This builds self-awareness.
Writing is equally important. Keep a daily journal in the language, write summaries of news articles, or participate in online forums on topics you know well. Ask a native speaker to correct your writing periodically. Focus on eliminating fossilized errors (mistakes you repeat often) by drilling those specific grammar points.
Tradeoffs: This approach requires significant time and discipline. You may feel frustrated by plateaus. The benefit is that it builds real-world fluency faster than classes alone. Avoid the trap of only passive input (watching TV) without active output (speaking/writing). Also, do not neglect pronunciation: even small improvements can greatly enhance clarity.
Concrete next steps for you: 1) Set a specific goal, e.g., "I will be able to discuss my military role in detail and give a 5-minute presentation on a technical topic without preparation." 2) Create a weekly schedule: 30 min of active listening, 30 min of speaking practice, 15 min of writing, and 15 min of vocabulary review daily. 3) Find a speaking partner or tutor for at least two sessions per week. 4) Use spaced repetition software for vocabulary. 5) After one month, take a mock exam or ask a native to evaluate your progress. Adjust as needed.