I nte r nati o nal e n g LI s h lan g uag e testi n g syste m

As seen above, professional success and wealth cannot buy true happiness and this 

is a realisation that all too often comes in old age. This essay has shown that the 

health of relationships with family, friends and colleagues is the genuine catalyst 

to lasting happiness. Thus, keeping in touch with people is much more than just a 

courtesy.

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IELTS Academic Task 2: How to write at a band 9 level

44

Try it yourself! (Answers)

In achieving personal happiness, our relationships with family, friends, 

and colleagues are more important than work and wealth. Do you agree or 

disagree with this?

The increasing pressures of today’s money-driven world can often cause people 

to gravitate towards material items. However, true personal happiness is rarely 

achieved through professional endeavours or wealth. Although these things may be 

nice extras, I agree that healthy relationships with family, friends and colleagues 

are the true keys to personal happiness. This will be shown by analysing the often 

lonely lives of many wealthy celebrities as well as the advice of older people who