The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people and their lifestyles. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing someone with a very busy lifestyle. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about busy lifestyles. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you think people are busier now than in the past?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe people today are significantly busier than previous generations. The advent of technology has blurred the lines between work and personal life, making it challenging to disconnect. Moreover, the fast-paced nature of modern society often requires individuals to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously. This constant connectivity and pressure to multitask have undoubtedly contributed to a more hectic lifestyle for many.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a person with a very busy lifestyle:
Describe a person who has a very busy lifestyle
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they do
- Why they are so busy
- How you feel about their lifestyle
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my cousin, Sarah, who epitomizes the definition of a busy lifestyle. Sarah is a 32-year-old entrepreneur who runs her own tech startup in Silicon Valley. Her days are a whirlwind of activities, starting at the crack of dawn and often extending well into the night.
Sarah’s primary occupation is managing her company, which develops innovative mobile applications. This role requires her to wear multiple hats – from overseeing product development and marketing strategies to networking with potential investors and clients. Her commitment to her business is unwavering, and she’s constantly striving to stay ahead in the competitive tech industry.
The reasons for Sarah’s incredibly busy schedule are multifaceted. Firstly, the nature of the tech industry demands constant innovation and adaptation. She needs to keep her finger on the pulse of the latest trends and technologies. Secondly, as the founder of a startup, she’s responsible for every aspect of the business, which naturally leads to a packed schedule. Lastly, Sarah is also passionate about mentoring young women in tech, which adds another layer to her already full plate.
My feelings about Sarah’s lifestyle are mixed. On one hand, I deeply admire her drive and dedication. She’s living her dream and making a significant impact in her field. Her passion is palpable, and it’s inspiring to see someone so committed to their goals. On the other hand, I sometimes worry about the toll such a hectic lifestyle might take on her well-being. I often find myself hoping she finds time for self-care and relaxation amidst her busy schedule.
In conclusion, while Sarah’s lifestyle is undoubtedly demanding, it’s also a testament to her ambition and determination. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of what one can achieve with focus and hard work, even if it comes at the cost of a more relaxed lifestyle.”
Entrepreneur working late at night in office
Follow-up Questions:
- Do you think it’s possible to maintain a work-life balance with such a busy lifestyle?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Maintaining a work-life balance in such a demanding scenario is undoubtedly challenging, but not impossible. It requires meticulous planning and a strong commitment to prioritizing one’s well-being. Successful individuals often implement strict boundaries between work and personal time, leveraging techniques like time-blocking or delegating tasks. Moreover, they tend to optimize their productivity during work hours, allowing for more quality personal time. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the concept of balance may look different for each individual, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.”
- What are some potential drawbacks of having a very busy lifestyle?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“A relentlessly busy lifestyle can have several significant drawbacks. Firstly, it can lead to chronic stress and burnout, which may have severe implications for both physical and mental health. There’s also the risk of neglecting personal relationships, as the demanding schedule might leave little time for family and friends. Additionally, such a lifestyle could result in a lack of self-reflection and personal growth outside of one’s professional sphere. Finally, it may lead to a diminished quality of life overall, as the individual might miss out on life’s simpler pleasures and experiences that contribute to a well-rounded existence.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to busy lifestyles. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Question 1: How has technology affected people’s work-life balance?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has had a profound and multifaceted impact on work-life balance. On one hand, it has enhanced flexibility by enabling remote work and providing tools for efficient task management. This flexibility can allow individuals to better integrate their work and personal lives. However, the constant connectivity facilitated by smartphones and the internet has also blurred the boundaries between work and personal time. Many people find themselves perpetually ‘on call’, checking work emails or messages outside of traditional office hours. This can lead to a sense of never truly ‘switching off’ from work.
Moreover, the rise of the gig economy and digital platforms has created new opportunities for flexible work, but it has also contributed to a culture of ‘always-on’ availability. While this can be beneficial for some, it can also lead to overwork and difficulty in maintaining clear boundaries.
It’s worth noting that the impact of technology on work-life balance isn’t uniformly positive or negative – it largely depends on how it’s managed both at an individual and organizational level. Companies that implement policies to respect employees’ personal time, such as restricting after-hours emails, can help mitigate some of the negative effects. Ultimately, technology provides tools that can either enhance or hinder work-life balance, and the outcome often depends on how these tools are utilized and regulated.”
Work-life balance and technology illustration
Question 2: Do you think society places too much value on being busy?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There’s a compelling argument to be made that modern society does indeed place an excessive value on busyness. This phenomenon, often referred to as ‘hustle culture’, has become increasingly prevalent, particularly in Western societies and urban centers worldwide.
The glorification of busy lifestyles can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, there’s a widespread perception that being busy equates to being productive or successful. This notion has been exacerbated by social media, where people often showcase their packed schedules and achievements, creating a sort of ‘busyness competition’.
Moreover, in many professional environments, there’s an implicit expectation that employees should be available around the clock, leading to a culture where overwork is normalized and even celebrated. This mindset can be particularly damaging as it often prioritizes quantity of work over quality and fails to recognize the importance of rest and recovery in maintaining long-term productivity and well-being.
However, there’s a growing awareness of the potential downsides of this ‘cult of busyness’. Mental health professionals and workplace experts are increasingly highlighting the importance of work-life balance, mindfulness, and the value of ‘doing nothing’. Some forward-thinking companies are even implementing policies to combat overwork, such as mandatory vacation time or ‘no email’ hours.
In conclusion, while society does seem to overvalue busyness, there’s a gradual shift towards recognizing the importance of balance and well-being. The challenge lies in recalibrating our collective values to appreciate not just productivity, but also rest, reflection, and quality of life.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): To be a perfect example of something.
Example: “Her hectic schedule epitomizes the modern workaholic lifestyle.”Whirlwind /ˈwɜːlwɪnd/ (noun): A very busy or energetic person or sequence of events.
Example: “His life is a whirlwind of meetings, travel, and deadlines.”Keep one’s finger on the pulse (idiom): To be aware of the latest developments.
Example: “As a CEO, she needs to keep her finger on the pulse of industry trends.”Palpable /ˈpælpəbl/ (adjective): Able to be touched or felt; obvious or easily perceived.
Example: “The stress in the office was palpable as the deadline approached.”Meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/ (adjective): Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
Example: “He maintains a meticulous schedule to manage his numerous commitments.”Implement /ˈɪmplɪment/ (verb): Put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect.
Example: “They implemented new policies to improve work-life balance.”Chronic /ˈkrɒnɪk/ (adjective): Persisting for a long time or constantly recurring.
Example: “Chronic stress is a common issue for people with extremely busy lifestyles.”Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: “The impact of technology on work-life balance is multifaceted and complex.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing busy lifestyles:
- Use a range of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions related to work and time management.
- Provide detailed examples to support your points, drawing from personal experiences or observations.
- Discuss both positive and negative aspects of busy lifestyles to demonstrate critical thinking.
- Use a variety of complex sentence structures to showcase your language proficiency.
- Practice speaking on this topic to improve fluency and reduce hesitations.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, coherence, and confidence in your delivery.
Describe a piece of advice that changed your perspective could be relevant when discussing how someone might have advised you about managing a busy lifestyle effectively. Similarly, describe a person who helped you through a tough time might relate to someone who assisted you in balancing your commitments during a particularly hectic period.
By incorporating these strategies and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss busy lifestyles and related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!