Some People Say the Main Way to Be Happy in Life is to Have a Lot of Money – IELTS Writing Task 2

In this blog, we not only explore the technical aspects of the Direct Question Essay, also known as the Two-Part Question essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 but also delve into one of its topics ‘Some People Say The Main Way To Be Happy In Life Is To Have A Lot Of Money’ to get a broader context of effective communication and critical thinking.

We understand that success in the IELTS exam goes beyond mere memorization of formulas. It requires a deep understanding of the topic at hand such as this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay and the ability to articulate ideas coherently and persuasively.

Question

Structural Breakdown

Type: Direct Question Essay

Band 7 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘Some People Say The Main Way To Be Happy In Life Is To Have A Lot Of Money’

It is often argued that wealth is the primary path to happiness in life. Undoubtedly, having a substantial amount of money can contribute significantly to one’s happiness in various ways. Firstly, financial stability provided by wealth can alleviate stress and anxiety related to basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Knowing that these necessities are readily available can bring a sense of security and peace of mind, fostering a happier state of being. Moreover, wealth can enable individuals to indulge in experiences and luxuries that bring them joy, whether it be traveling to exotic destinations, purchasing high-quality goods, or enjoying leisure activities. This ability to fulfill desires and aspirations can enhance overall life satisfaction.

However, happiness derived solely from wealth is often superficial and short-lived. Research suggests that beyond a certain income threshold, additional wealth does not significantly increase happiness. Moreover, the pursuit of wealth can lead to a relentless cycle of materialism and competition, detracting from meaningful relationships and experiences. True happiness lies in a balance between material comfort and emotional fulfillment.

Beyond financial wealth, numerous other factors contribute to happiness. Meaningful relationships, for instance, are essential for emotional well-being. Spending quality time with family and friends, sharing experiences, and providing and receiving support can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Additionally, pursuing passions and interests, whether it be through hobbies, creative endeavors, or personal development, adds richness and purpose to life. Furthermore, contributing to the well-being of others through acts of kindness, volunteering, or philanthropy can evoke a profound sense of satisfaction and happiness. In essence, while money can facilitate certain aspects of happiness, it is far from being the sole determinant.

Vocabulary of Band 7 

1. Substantial: Large in amount or degree.

Example: The company reported a substantial increase in profits this quarter.

2. Alleviate: To make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe.

Example: Painkillers can help alleviate the symptoms of a headache.

3. Aspirations: Strong desires or ambitions.

Example: Her lifelong aspiration is to travel the world and explore different cultures.

4. Superficial: Existing or occurring at or on the surface.

Example: Their friendship was superficial, based more on convenience than genuine connection.

5. Threshold: The level, point, or value above which something is true or will take place.

Example: The company is on the threshold of launching its new product line.

6. Materialism: A tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values.

Example: The culture of materialism in society often leads to dissatisfaction and emptiness.

7. Relentless: Harsh or inflexible; unyielding.

Example: The relentless heat made it difficult to concentrate on anything.

8. Philanthropy: The desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.

Example: The billionaire’s philanthropy has funded numerous educational initiatives around the world.

9. Proclaim: To announce officially or publicly.

Example: The president proclaimed a national day of mourning for the victims of the tragedy.

10. Intricate: Very complicated or detailed.

Example: The artist’s painting was admired for its intricate details and vibrant colors.

Band 8 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘Some People Say The Main Way To Be Happy In Life Is To Have A Lot Of Money’

The contention that wealth is the paramount route to happiness in life is a perspective often upheld by many. It is indisputable that possessing considerable wealth can furnish individuals with a multitude of avenues through which happiness can be attained. Primarily, financial affluence affords individuals the luxury of not having to worry about fulfilling basic needs, thereby alleviating stress and fostering a sense of security and contentment. Moreover, wealth provides individuals with the means to indulge in various leisure activities, travel to exotic locales, and procure high-end commodities, all of which contribute significantly to enhancing one’s overall satisfaction and well-being.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of equating wealth with happiness. While material comforts can undoubtedly contribute to momentary happiness, sustained fulfillment often transcends monetary possessions. Research indicates that once basic needs are met, additional wealth has diminishing returns on happiness. Furthermore, the pursuit of wealth can engender a sense of emptiness and disillusionment, as individuals may find themselves trapped in a perpetual cycle of consumerism and materialism, devoid of deeper meaning and purpose in life.

In addition to financial prosperity, there exist myriad other facets of life that are instrumental in fostering happiness and well-being. Meaningful relationships, characterized by love, trust, and companionship, are paramount in nurturing emotional fulfillment and contentment. Devoting time to cultivate these relationships and forge meaningful connections can bring immeasurable joy and satisfaction. Furthermore, pursuing passions and hobbies, whether it be engaging in creative endeavors, sports, or intellectual pursuits, allows individuals to experience a profound sense of fulfillment and self-actualization.

Moreover, acts of altruism and generosity, such as volunteering or philanthropy, not only contribute to the well-being of others but also evoke a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment in the giver.

Vocabulary of Band 8

1. Paramount: More important than anything else; supreme.

Example: In emergency situations, the safety of the passengers is paramount.

2. Affluence: The state of having a great deal of money; and wealth.

Example: The neighborhood was known for its affluence, with large mansions and luxury cars.

3. Indisputable: Unable to be challenged or denied; unquestionable.

Example: It is indisputable that climate change poses a significant threat to our planet.

4. Diminishing: Becoming gradually less.

Example: There has been a diminishing interest in traditional forms of entertainment with the rise of digital media.

5. Consumerism: The preoccupation of society with the acquisition of consumer goods.

Example: The culture of consumerism encourages people to buy things they don’t need.

6. Disillusionment: A feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be.

Example: The artist experienced disillusionment when he realized that fame did not bring him happiness.

7. Companionship: The feeling of friendship or fellowship.

Example: Many elderly people value the companionship of pets as it alleviates feelings of loneliness.

8. Self-actualization: The realization or fulfillment of one’s talents and potentialities, especially considered as a drive or need present in everyone.

Example: Pursuing higher education allowed her to achieve a sense of self-actualization and personal growth.

9. Altruism: The belief in or practice of disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.

Example: His altruism was evident in his tireless efforts to help the less fortunate in his community.

10. Forge: To create or develop something, especially a strong relationship or connection.

Example: The two nations forged a strategic alliance to address common challenges.

Band 9 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘Some People Say The Main Way To Be Happy In Life Is To Have A Lot Of Money’

The assertion that wealth is synonymous with happiness is a notion deeply ingrained in contemporary society. While it is undeniable that financial prosperity can facilitate certain avenues to happiness, a nuanced understanding reveals that true fulfillment transcends material possessions. Wealth undoubtedly provides individuals with a sense of security and comfort, allowing for the fulfillment of basic needs and the pursuit of leisure activities. Moreover, the ability to indulge in experiences and luxuries can undoubtedly contribute to momentary joy and satisfaction.

However, the correlation between wealth and happiness is far more complex than a simple cause-and-effect relationship. Beyond a certain threshold, additional wealth has diminishing returns on happiness, as material possessions become less consequential in determining overall well-being. Moreover, the pursuit of wealth can lead to a relentless cycle of consumerism and materialism, detracting from deeper sources of fulfillment and meaning in life.

In contrast, numerous intangible factors play a pivotal role in fostering genuine happiness and well-being. Meaningful relationships, characterized by love, trust, and mutual support, are fundamental in nurturing emotional fulfillment and contentment. Investing time and effort in cultivating these connections can yield profound and lasting benefits. Furthermore, pursuing passions and interests, whether it be through creative endeavors, intellectual pursuits, or physical activities, allows individuals to experience a sense of flow and self-actualization, transcending mundane concerns and tapping into their innate potential.

Moreover, acts of kindness and altruism, such as volunteering, philanthropy, and community engagement, not only benefit others but also evoke a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment in the giver. Ultimately, happiness emerges from a harmonious integration of material comfort, meaningful relationships, personal growth, and a sense of contributing to something greater than oneself.

Vocabulary of Band 9

1. Synonymous: Having the same or nearly the same meaning as another word or phrase.

Example: In many cultures, wealth is synonymous with success and status.

2. Nuanced: Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.

Example: The author’s nuanced portrayal of the characters added depth to the novel.

3. Consequential: Following as a result or effect.

Example: The company’s decision to expand had consequential effects on its profit margins.

4. Relentless: Showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace.

Example: The relentless rain caused flooding in many low-lying areas.

5. Transcend: To go beyond the limits of; exceed or surpass.

Example: His artwork seeks to transcend cultural boundaries and speak to universal themes.

6. Intangible: Not capable of being touched or felt; abstract.

Example: The value of friendship is intangible but immensely important in our lives.

7. Flow: The mental state in which a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity.

Example: When I’m writing, I often enter a state of flow where hours pass without me noticing.

8. Tap into: To make use of (a resource).

Example: The company tapped into new markets by launching innovative products.

9. Harmonious: Forming a pleasing or consistent whole.

Example: The architect designed the building to be in harmonious balance with its surroundings.

10. Integration: The act or process of combining or coordinating various elements into a whole.

Example: The successful integration of technology into the curriculum improved student engagement.

Connectors That’ll Improve Your Writing Task 2 Score For The Topic ‘Some People Say The Main Way To Be Happy In Life Is To Have A Lot Of Money’

Connectors play a crucial role in linking ideas and creating a smooth flow of information within a text. Here is a list of common connectors that can be used in the provided answers:

• Firstly
• Moreover
• However
• Furthermore
• In addition
• In contrast
• Nonetheless
• Additionally
• Moreover
• Ultimately
• Nevertheless
• Furthermore

Conclusion

While substantial wealth can enable comforts and conveniences, science suggests that strong social bonds and living out a sense of purpose are ultimately key for lasting fulfillment. Money may facilitate happiness, but it cannot replace the joy of meaningful connections and making a positive impact.

More Writing Task 2 Essay Topics

• Some People Think That Parents Should Teach Children How to be Good Members of Society
• One of the Consequences of Improved Medical Care is That People are Living Longer and Life Expectancy is Increasing 
• Happiness is Considered Very Important in Life
• Today More and More Tourists are Visiting Places Where Conditions are Difficult