2023届高考英语三轮复习·冲刺押题·外刊阅读理解训练 (28)

2023届高考英语三轮复习·冲刺押题 外刊阅读理解训练28 ——改编自A 7-Day Challenge to Connect in the New Year 【文章】 The start of a new year often sees individuals making resolutions, but many people fail to follow through due to losing momentum and motivation. Instead, the author suggests the creation of ‘smart goals’ which must be small, specific, measurable, attainable, relevant to your life, and timely with respect to one’s personal situations. Recently, the New York Times ran a series of newsletters called the “7-Day Happiness Challenge” based on research from the Harvard Study of Adult Development which is ongoing since 85 years. This study has found that strong connections at all levels determine our overall happiness. Other studies support this as socially connected people live longer and are better protected against stress, anxiety, and depression while loneliness can harm physical health. The challenge offers small and specific steps that can help in addressing the problem of making friends in adulthood. One such recommendation is the “8-minute phone call”. It involves calling someone you miss or would like to know better and having an 8-minute conversation to catch up and stay connected until the next in-person meet-up. Other steps include engaging in small talk with strangers, improving workplace relationships and making specific plans to socialize with others. These steps could help promote a healthy emotional life and prevent isolation, improving overall happiness. According to the Harvard Study’s current directors, maintaining relationships at all levels requires hard work and consistency. The frequency and quality of social contacts matter, and it’s never too late to start investing in and growing a solid social network. While the challenge may not be easy for some, especially those living with mental illness or disorders, small steps taken over time can still lead to achieving one's goal. In conclusion, smart goals based on small, specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and