Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time
Read Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time and check the IELTS Reading answers. At our company, the Energy Project, we have worked with thousands of executives and, with remarkable consistency, they tell us they're pushing themselves harder than ever to keep up. The problem with working longer hours is…
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At our company, the Energy Project, we have worked with thousands of executives and, with remarkable consistency, they tell us they're pushing themselves harder than ever to keep up. The problem with working longer hours is that time is a finite resource. However, energy is a different story. Energy comes from four main wellsprings: the body, emotions, mind and spirit and, in each area, energy can be systematically expanded. Most organizations invest in developing employees' knowledge and competence but few help build and sustain their energy. In fact, greater energy makes it possible to get more done in less time at a higher level of engagement.
Answers with explanations
- 27. NO
The writers argue that while time is finite, **energy** is a resource that can be **systematically expanded** through physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellsprings. This directly contradicts the statement's claim that humans have a **fixed supply** (limited/unchangeable amount) of energy. Answer: NO.
- 28. NOT GIVEN
The text discusses **ultradian rhythms** and how the body craves recovery at the end of an energy cycle. It lists specific signals such as **restlessness** and **difficulty concentrating**, but it makes no mention of **hunger**. Since this specific detail is absent, it is impossible to determine the writers' view. Answer: NOT GIVEN.
- 29. YES
The passage explicitly states that taking breaks every hour **goes against the culture** of most organizations. This confirms that such behavior is viewed as **inappropriate** or unconventional within typical corporate settings. The statement accurately reflects the writers' observation. Answer: YES.
- 30. NOT GIVEN
The writers note that **negative emotions** lead to energy loss, **friction**, and poor thinking. However, the text does not mention whether this leads to **staff absences** (staying away from work). Because there is no mention of this specific outcome, the answer is NOT GIVEN.
- 31. C
The writers mention **ultradian rhythms** to explain that the human body moves through high and low energy states. The fact that the body **craves recovery** at the end of each 90-120 minute cycle supports the argument that the **human body requires regular downtime**. This refutes the idea of working for longer periods without rest. Answer: C.
- 32. D
The text states that people are **surprised** to find they cannot perform well when feeling '**any other way**' than positive. This implies that a **pessimistic approach** (a state other than positive) **prevents them from reaching their potential**. Other options like performing well when optimistic are things people already 'realize', so they are not 'surprising'. Answer: D.
- 33. A
The passage states that expressing appreciation has a higher impact when it is **fuller and more precise**. This supports the idea that these expressions **should be detailed** to produce the **best results**. Distractors regarding financial components or the giver benefiting more are not supported as the primary reason for best results. Answer: A.
- 34. D
The writers explain that people can discover their values by identifying **qualities they find most off-putting** in others. By describing what they **can't stand**, they reveal their own standards. This matches the idea of **considering what kind of behaviour offends them**. Answer: D.
- 35. B
The text describes **optimal candidates** as those who are **eager for solutions** but are **not completely overwhelmed**. This implies they want change but are **still in control** of their situation. Candidates in 'extremely stressful' environments would likely be 'overwhelmed', making them less suitable. Answer: B.
- 36. F
Gary Faro explains that because his energy levels are now stable, he no longer has to schedule his toughest work for the morning. This indicates that **he no longer needs to complete challenging tasks at a certain time of day**. His consistent focus throughout the day has removed his previous scheduling constraints. Answer: F.
- 37. D
Fujio Nishida was taught a **breathing exercise** that provided immediate relaxation and replaced his need for cigarettes under stress. This shows he **could immediately adopt a positive technique** to help him **cope with pressure**. The focus is on the speed and effectiveness of the new habit. Answer: D.
- 38. A
Ben Jenkins established a ritual of dinners where he **recognizes accomplishments** and discusses personal **aspirations** rather than work. This matches the description that **he acknowledges other people's achievements** and engages in discussions about **life outside the workplace**, like their future goals. Answer: A.
- 39. G
Dan Cluna chose to work in a conference room to eliminate distractions and maintain concentration. As a result, he was able to finish reports much faster, demonstrating that **he could complete challenging tasks more quickly** by changing his physical working location. Answer: G.
- 40. B
By changing the timing of his email responses and focusing on his most important task first, Jean Luc Desquesne feels he has accomplished a lot by mid-morning. This means **he gets a sense of accomplishment early in the day**, specifically by 10 am. Answer: B.