In recent IELTS examinations, questions about life goals, happiness, and success have frequently appeared. This topic resonates strongly with test-takers worldwide as it touches on universal human aspirations. Based on analysis of past papers, similar questions have appeared in various forms over the past five years, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS preparation.
Balancing happiness and success in life goals IELTS discussion
Topic Analysis
Some people believe that happiness is the ultimate goal in life, while others argue that it is more important to pursue other values, such as success or fulfillment. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting viewpoints
- Analysis of happiness as life’s ultimate goal
- Exploration of alternative life values
- Personal opinion with supporting arguments
Band 8 Sample Essay
Individuals often debate whether happiness should be prioritized above all else or if other aspirations like success and fulfillment deserve greater attention. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that pursuing a balanced approach yields the most satisfying life outcomes.
Those who champion happiness as life’s ultimate goal argue that emotional wellbeing fundamentally determines our quality of life. They contend that without happiness, achievements and material success become meaningless. For instance, many highly successful entrepreneurs report feeling empty despite their wealth and accomplishments when happiness is lacking. Moreover, research consistently shows that happy individuals tend to be more productive, creative, and resilient in facing life’s challenges.
However, proponents of pursuing other values emphasize that personal growth and achievement can provide deeper, more lasting satisfaction than the pursuit of happiness alone. They maintain that overcoming challenges, contributing to society, and reaching one’s full potential often require temporary sacrifices of immediate happiness. For example, medical professionals often endure years of grueling training, temporarily compromising their happiness for the fulfillment of helping others and achieving professional excellence.
In my view, treating happiness and other life values as complementary rather than competing goals leads to the most rewarding life experience. Success and fulfillment can enhance our capacity for happiness, while maintaining a positive emotional state enables us to pursue our ambitions more effectively. Consider how accomplished artists often find their greatest joy in the creative process itself, demonstrating how pursuing excellence and experiencing happiness can reinforce each other.
Therefore, while the debate between prioritizing happiness versus other values continues, I advocate for an integrated approach that recognizes the interconnected nature of these different aspects of human flourishing. This balanced perspective allows individuals to experience both immediate satisfaction and long-term fulfillment.
Integrated approach to happiness success and fulfillment in life
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
In today’s world, people have different opinions about what should be the main goal in life. Some think happiness is most important, while others believe success or fulfillment matter more. I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
Many people think happiness should be our main goal because it makes life worth living. When we are happy, we feel good and can enjoy our daily activities more. For example, having a job that makes us happy is better than having a high-paying job that makes us stressed and tired. Also, happy people usually have better relationships with family and friends.
On the other hand, some people think success and fulfillment are more important than just being happy. They believe that working hard to achieve goals gives life more meaning. For instance, students who study hard might not be happy while preparing for exams, but they feel proud when they get good results. Similarly, athletes train very hard to win competitions, which isn’t always enjoyable but gives them a sense of achievement.
In my opinion, we shouldn’t have to choose between happiness and other goals. I think they are all connected and important. When we achieve our goals, we often feel happy, and when we’re happy, we usually do better in our work and relationships. For example, successful people often say they enjoy what they do, showing that happiness and success can go together.
Key Vocabulary
- ultimate (adj) /ˈʌl.tɪ.mət/ – final, most important
- fulfillment (n) /fʊlˈfɪl.mənt/ – satisfaction from achieving goals
- contentment (n) /kənˈtent.mənt/ – state of happiness and satisfaction
- aspiration (n) /ˌæs.pəˈreɪ.ʃən/ – strong desire to achieve something
- well-being (n) /ˌwelˈbiːɪŋ/ – state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy
- accomplishment (n) /əˈkʌm.plɪʃ.mənt/ – achievement or success
- flourishing (adj) /ˈflʌr.ɪ.ʃɪŋ/ – developing successfully
- resilient (adj) /rɪˈzɪl.jənt/ – able to recover quickly from difficulties
Suggested Practice Topics
- Is personal happiness more important than professional success?
- Should people prioritize their own happiness over their responsibilities to others?
- Does achieving success guarantee happiness?
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
