IELTS Speaking Part 1 – Happiness

Examiner: Would you say you are a happy person?
Candidate: Overall, yes, I’d say I’m a happy person. I enjoy the simple things in life and appreciate the good moments. However, everyone experiences ups and downs, and it’s expected to have occasional challenges that might affect happiness.

Examiner: What does happiness mean to you?
Candidate: Happiness, for me, is a sense of contentment and well-being. It’s about feeling fulfilled, having a sense of purpose, and enjoying positive relationships. It’s not necessarily a constant state but a general satisfaction with my life.

Examiner: What are some things that make you happy?
Candidate: Many things contribute to my happiness! Spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies I enjoy, and achieving personal goals all fulfil me. Additionally, appreciating nature, learning new things, and helping others bring me joy.

Examiner: Do you think money can buy happiness?
Candidate: While financial security can reduce stress and provide opportunities, I don’t believe money alone guarantees happiness. Strong relationships, meaningful experiences, and a sense of purpose are more crucial for true happiness than material possessions.

Examiner: Can happiness be measured?
Candidate: Happiness is a subjective experience, so it’s difficult to quantify with a single number. However, some psychological surveys and scales measure well-being and life satisfaction factors, which can offer some insights into overall happiness.

Examiner: How important is it for you to make others around you happy?
Candidate: Making others happy is crucial to me! Seeing loved ones smile and feel positive fills me with joy. Acts of kindness, contributing to a positive atmosphere, and simply being there for someone in need can all add to the happiness of those around me.

Examiner: Do you think social media can make people feel less happy?
Candidate: Social media can be a double-edged sword. While it allows people to connect and share positive experiences, it can also lead to feelings of inadequacy or envy when comparing oneself to others’ online portrayals. Using social media mindfully and focusing on real-life connections is critical to avoiding these negative feelings.

Examiner: Do you think people become less happy as they get older?
Candidate: Not necessarily! Studies suggest happiness can actually increase in some people as they age. This might be due to having a greater perspective, appreciating what they have, and focusing on meaningful relationships.

Examiner: What do you do to cheer yourself up when you’re feeling down?
Candidate: I do a few things to lift my spirits when feeling down. Spending time in nature, listening to uplifting music, or talking to a close friend can help. Engaging in a favourite hobby or simply relaxing and de-stressing can also be effective mood boosters.

Examiner: Do you think setting goals to achieve happiness is essential?
Candidate: Setting goals can definitely contribute to happiness! Working towards achieving personal and professional goals gives us a sense of purpose and accomplishment. These achievements, big or small, can boost our confidence and overall sense of well-being.

Examiner: Do you think happiness is a choice?
Candidate: Happiness isn’t entirely a choice; external factors can impact our mood. However, we can choose our perspective and how we react to situations. Cultivating a positive attitude, practising gratitude, and focusing on the good things in life can all contribute significantly to overall happiness.

Examiner: Is it essential to help others achieve happiness?
Candidate: Absolutely! Helping others is a rewarding experience that can bring joy and a sense of purpose. By offering support, encouragement, or simply a listening ear, we can contribute to the well-being of those around us. A happier community strengthens the bonds between people and creates a more favourable environment for everyone.

Examiner: Do you think happiness is more important than success?
Candidate: Success and happiness are interconnected but not identical. While achieving goals and attaining success can bring satisfaction, true happiness is more about overall well-being and a sense of fulfilment in life. Striking a balance between pursuing success and prioritizing activities that bring joy is critical.

Examiner: Do you think some people are naturally happier than others?
Candidate: There might be some truth to that! Personality traits like optimism and resilience can influence a person’s natural tendency towards happiness. However, everyone has the potential to cultivate happiness through their thoughts, actions, and the choices they make.

Examiner: Do you think the world is becoming a happier place?
Candidate: It’s difficult to say definitively if the world is becoming happier. While there are still many challenges and inequalities, there’s also a growing awareness of the importance of well-being. Increased access to resources, advancements in psychology, and a greater focus on mental health might contribute to a more positive outlook for future generations.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary for  “Happiness”