Read the following article on being happy and then
answer the questions:
You have only yourself to blame if you are not
happier. Give up feeling sad and sorry
for yourself.
You can be happier NOW if you follow this advice.
We are a generation of couch potatoes. Give up those endless hours, lying on the
couch and doing very little. Television
is generally not good for you, unless you agree with Groucho Marx’s comment
that he found television very educational because, every time someone turned
the set on, he went to the next room and read a book!
We are often affected by the moods of those
closest to us. If we surround ourselves with negative people, those who only
describe the latest crime statistics or who have no sense of achievement, we,
too, will be sad and depressed. Do not
spend time with negative people who moan about weight gain, ageing, crooked
politicians, or the elections; surround yourself with happy people. Their mood
will be catching and you will brighten up immediately.
Once you are off the couch and spending time with
cheerful people, make sure that you lead an active life. Take up squash and
beat the blues away; run or walk regularly; swimming is excellent for muscles,
joints, and the heart; pump iron in the gym each morning; activity will allow you to approach your work
with greater energy.
Once at work, do not waste your time. You often
feel unhappy when you think that you have not achieved what you set out to do,
or when you are criticised for failing to meet deadlines. Instead, manage your
time wisely.
We know from all the self-help guides and the
how-to articles in newspapers and magazines that them. Make sure that you set
goals and review them from time to time. Check each month whether you are still
on track.
Instead of complaining and criticising, be
grateful for what you have. We are all inclined to focus on the negatives and
we forget that there is so much to praise and enjoy. Make sure that you say “thank
you” – to your loved ones, to God, to your neighbours and friends.
Questions
1. Where do you think this article was published?
Give a reason for your answer. (2)
2. For whom is the article written? Give a reason
for your answer. (2)
3. The writer says that we are all “coach
potatoes”. Do you agree with this? Give a reason
for your answer. Has Groucho Marx (a famous
comedian) got a point? (3)
4. The writer argues that we should not surround
ourselves with negative people.
4.1 According to the writer, what sort of negative
things do these people talk about? (3)
4.2 Why do you think people like to focus on
negative things? (2)
4.3 How do you think you can avoid negative
people? (2)
5. Do you agree that we need to live an active
life? Give a reason for your answer. (2)
6. Explain the importance of time management. (2)
7. Why do you think this writer talks about the
need for goals? (2)
8. Is an article about being happy needed at this
time? Give a reason for your answer. (2)
Suggested Solutions
1. The article was probably published in the Life section of a
newspaper, or in a magazine. It is quite colloquial and enthusiastic; it gives
typical hints and tips in an informal, racy way.
2. The article is written for everyone. Advice about being
happy applies to everyone, regardless of race, gender, age, etc. (2)
3. Any reasonable suggestion. The learner may say yes/no, and
must give a reason. (2)
4.1 weight gain, ageing, crooked politicians, crime or the
elections. Any 4. (4)
4.2 Any reasonable suggestion, e.g., people actually enjoy
being negative and complaining all the time. (2)
4.3 Any reasonable suggestion, e.g., do not choose to spend
time with such people; find other friends. (2)
5. Any reasoned view, e.g., exercise is essential for mind and
body. (2)
6. Without control of time, you will not achieve your goals
and then you will feel like a failure.
(2)
7. Any reasonable answer. Goals give us direction and purpose
and help us get a sense of achievement. (2)
8. Any reasonable suggestion, e.g., there is so much
negativity about Eskom and politicians and crime that an article like this
might help. (2)
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