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Happiness is a topic that has fascinated humans for centuries. Some people believe that individuals are responsible for their own happiness, while others feel that external factors, such as wealth, relationships, or circumstances, play a more significant role. In this blog post, we will examine both viewpoints and provide a high-band IELTS essay example for candidates.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
“People are responsible for their happiness. Others feel happiness depends on other factors in their life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Question Breakdown
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Topic | Sources of happiness: personal responsibility vs external factors |
| View 1 | Individuals are responsible for their own happiness |
| View 2 | Happiness depends on other external factors in life |
| Task | Discuss both views and provide your opinion |
Essay Planning Table
| Section | Content Ideas |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Paraphrase the question, outline both views |
| Body Paragraph 1 | Explain how personal choices and mindset influence happiness |
| Body Paragraph 2 | Explain how external factors like wealth, relationships, and life events affect happiness |
| Body Paragraph 3 | Give personal opinion: combination or prioritize personal responsibility |
| Conclusion | Summarise both views and restate opinion clearly |
Sample High-Band Essay (Approx. 270 words)
Happiness is one of the most important goals in life, yet people have differing opinions about its sources. Some argue that individuals are responsible for their own happiness, while others believe that external factors such as wealth, relationships, or life circumstances play a more decisive role. This essay will examine both perspectives before providing my own opinion.
On one hand, personal responsibility is a key factor in achieving happiness. Individuals who cultivate a positive mindset, set realistic goals, and manage stress effectively can maintain a sense of satisfaction regardless of their external conditions. Self-motivation, gratitude, and resilience allow people to enjoy life and overcome challenges, demonstrating that happiness often originates from within.
On the other hand, external factors cannot be ignored. Financial security, supportive relationships, and favorable life events contribute significantly to well-being. For example, individuals struggling with poverty or serious health problems may find it difficult to feel content despite their efforts to maintain a positive mindset. Similarly, strong social connections and a nurturing environment can enhance overall happiness.
In my opinion, while external circumstances influence happiness, personal responsibility is more important. People who actively seek meaning, practice self-care, and maintain a constructive outlook can experience happiness even in challenging situations. However, external factors can amplify or hinder these efforts, so a balance is necessary.
In conclusion, both personal responsibility and external factors affect happiness. Nevertheless, prioritizing self-awareness, positive thinking, and personal effort provides the most reliable path to long-term contentment.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing
- Personal responsibility, self-motivation, resilience, positive mindset
- External factors, financial security, social connections, life circumstances
- Well-being, satisfaction, constructive outlook, amplify
- Gratitude, contentment, nurturing environment, long-term happiness
Final Tips for IELTS Candidates
- Spend 5–7 minutes planning your essay before writing.
- Paraphrase the question in your introduction to show lexical range.
- Use linking words: however, moreover, on the other hand, in contrast.
- Support arguments with relevant examples or scenarios.
- Give a clear opinion in Body Paragraph 3 and the conclusion.
- Proofread for grammar, punctuation, and sentence clarity.
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