I care too much what other people think. How can I stop?
This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson.
To be desperate (for something/ to do something)
To make fun (of someone/ something)
To take (something/ someone) for granted
To hold (something/ someone) back
Can’t bear the thought of (something)
We do care
To take something out on someone
To hamper (something/ someone)
15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.
1. What is the person’s problem?
2. What is Philippa’s advice?
3. Do you agree with Phillipa’s advice, and do you think it will be helpful?
4. Has your relationship with your siblings influenced who you are today?
5. ‘At school, I based my self-worth on academic success.’ Is this true for you also?
6. ‘I care excessively about what impression I’m making and can’t bear the thought of displeasing people.’ Is this true for you also?
7. Do you enjoy meeting big groups of new people?
8. What is more nerve-racking, having a job interview or meeting your partner’s parents for the first time?
9. ‘Whenever I buy clothes, get tattoos or style my hair, I’m doing it for myself, not to impress anyone else.’ Is this true for you?
10. ‘I felt that if I had the perfect physique, I would be more popular.’ Was the writer wrong to think this?
Now it’s your turn to give some advice!
11. ‘My daughter just asked me if I thought she would be able to become a world famous pop singer. I know that she isn’t a talented singer. What should I do?’
12. ‘I want to go on holiday for a few weeks alone, without my husband and young kids. I’m worried that if I tell them I want to go alone they will be offended. What should I do?’
13. ‘I just met my best friend’s new boyfriend for the first time and I think he is an awful person. I feel like I want to tell my friend, but I’m not sure that being honest is the right thing to do in this situation. What should I do?’
14. ‘My 6 year-old son’s pet rabbit was just eaten by a fox. Should I tell him the truth, or buy him a new one and hope he doesn’t notice?’
15. ‘My best friend’s wife made a pass at me. They are happily married with two kids. What should I do?’