IELTS VocabMaster

Describe a happy person you know.

Describe a happy person you know. You should say: - who this person is - how you know this person - what this person is like - and explain why you think this person is happy

Part 2 model answer

If I had to pick the happiest person I know, it would definitely be Jamal chacha, who runs a small tea stall near our neighbourhood mosque. He's probably in his late fifties, and I've known him for almost ten years, because I've been stopping by his stall for tea ever since I was in school.

What's remarkable about him is that he doesn't have an easy life at all. He wakes up before dawn, works almost fourteen hours a day, and earns quite a modest income. His stall is just a tiny wooden structure with a kettle, a few glasses, and a small bench. But despite all that, I've hardly ever seen him without a smile on his face.

He's an incredibly warm and cheerful person. He greets every customer by name, cracks jokes, and always asks about their families. Even when it's raining heavily or business is slow, he just laughs and says something like, "Tomorrow will be better, inshallah." Children in the area love him, because he often gives them a free biscuit when they pass by.

I think the reason he's so happy is that he's genuinely content with what he has. He doesn't compare himself to others or chase after expensive things. Once, I asked him his secret, and he simply said that being grateful and being kind to people keeps his heart light. That really stuck with me. Meeting him always reminds me that happiness doesn't depend on money or status, but on attitude. Whenever I'm feeling stressed, a short chat with him over a cup of tea genuinely lifts my mood.

Part 3 discussion

What makes people happy?

I think strong relationships with family and friends are the biggest source of happiness. Good health, a sense of purpose, and financial stability also matter. But beyond a certain point, money doesn't add much happiness. Being grateful and having a positive attitude play a huge role.

Are people today happier than people in the past?

It's hard to say. Today, people have more comfort, technology, and opportunities. But they also face more stress, competition, and loneliness. In the past, life was simpler and communities were closer, so I feel many people were more content, even with less.

Does money bring happiness?

Money can bring happiness up to a point, because it provides security, healthcare, and education. Without enough money, life becomes very stressful. However, once basic needs are met, having more money doesn't necessarily make people happier. Many rich people still feel empty or anxious.

Why do some people stay positive even in difficult situations?

Some people are naturally optimistic, while others have learned resilience from past hardships. Faith and spirituality also help many people stay calm. Having supportive people around them makes a big difference too, because they don't feel alone when facing problems.

Can happiness be learned?

I believe so, to some extent. People can build habits that improve their mood, like exercising regularly, practising gratitude, and spending less time on social media. Learning to manage negative thoughts also helps. So, although personality matters, happiness is partly a choice and a skill.