GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 100
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Happiness is deemed paramount in life and it means different things to different people. This essay will explore the reasons why it is difficult to denote happiness, and then discuss the major factors contributing to the pursuit of happiness, followed by a reasoned conclusion.
Happiness barely fits any definition. This is because it is an abstract notion. Each individual, therefore, has his own different happiness in each phase of life. As people live in different conditions, they are influenced by different factors, like family, relationships, friends, living standards and even knowledge, so each person has a different concept of what happiness is. For instance, with homeless people, happiness means that they can buy a home or apartment but people who have a house think thank they would be happy when they can buy a large mansion in a posh area. Similarly, for the unemployed, a job is the definition of their happiness while for executives, happiness may mean moving swiftly up the corporate ladder.
Likewise, several factors are taken into account in pursuit of happiness. Firstly, it seems hard for an individual to achieve happiness if there is a lack of basic needs, like food, shelter, cloth, and education for example. Secondly, relationships have been considered to be an eminent factor when it comes to pursuing happiness. In simple words, strong family ties or a close circle of friends can lead to a happy life. A good chunk of studies has discovered that people who have a network of close friends with whom they can rely in challenging times are more likely to lead happy life. Last but not least, the key to achieving happiness is to enjoy what people already have.
In conclusion, happiness is regarded as an eminently desirable phenomenon in humans’ lives. Although it is difficult to give a precise definition of happiness because the phenomenon is relatively subjective, I believe that basic needs and sound relationships are the minimum prerequisites of a happy life.
Model Answer 2:
Happiness is widely recognized as a crucial aspect of life, yet defining it can be a complex task due to its subjective and multifaceted nature. Various factors contribute to the difficulty in defining happiness, including its subjective nature, its varying interpretations across cultures and individuals, and its multidimensional aspects. Additionally, achieving happiness is influenced by several key factors, including personal well-being, positive relationships, and a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
One reason defining happiness is challenging is its subjective nature. Happiness can be understood differently by different individuals based on their unique perspectives, values, and life experiences. What brings happiness to one person may not necessarily do the same for another. Thus, attempting to establish a universal definition that encompasses the diverse range of human experiences and preferences can be elusive.
Cultural differences also contribute to the difficulty in defining happiness. Different cultures have distinct norms, values, and ideals, which can shape their perceptions and definitions of happiness. For instance, some cultures prioritize collective well-being and harmony, while others emphasize individual achievement and personal fulfilment. These cultural variations make it challenging to establish a singular definition applicable to all societies. Moreover, happiness is a multidimensional concept. It encompasses various aspects of human life, including emotional well-being, satisfaction with life circumstances, and a sense of purpose and meaning.
To achieve happiness several factors play a significant role. Firstly, personal well-being, which includes physical health, mental well-being, and self-care practices, contributes to overall happiness. Taking care of one’s physical and mental health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management techniques can enhance well-being and happiness. Positive relationships and social connections are also crucial for happiness. Meaningful connections with family, friends, and a supportive community provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and fulfilment. Cultivating and nurturing these relationships can contribute significantly to one’s happiness. Furthermore, having a sense of purpose and meaning in life is vital for happiness.
In conclusion, while happiness is considered essential in life, its definition is challenging due to its subjective nature, cultural variations, and multidimensional aspects. Recognizing and embracing the diverse interpretations and factors that contribute to happiness can guide individuals in their pursuit of a fulfilling and meaningful life.