B2 – Upper Intermediate
Brian Dyson, former Coca-Cola CEO, made some speeches in his lifetime that had left a mark on everyone and several of them have gone viral since.
One of them is the one about what he calls, “The Five Balls of Life”.
Find out what “the five balls of life” is about.
Be ready to answer the questions that follow.
https://shinecoachingbarcelona.com/5-balls-of-life-brian-dyson-speech
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “irrevocably” mean? “You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. But the other four balls – family, health, friends and spirit – are made of glass. If you drop one of these, they will be irrevocably scuffed, marked, nicked, damaged or even shattered.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘irrevocably‘ in your own sentence.
- What does “pillar” mean here, “Connecting with these pillars of who you are is a great way to grow energy, confidence and clarity.”? Use this word in a sentence in the same context.
- What does “to be at a crossroads” mean? “If you find yourself at a similar crossroads in your career and life, take some real time to reflect on yourself.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- In your own words, explain the five balls of life. Share your takeaway from this metaphor.
- Share your opinion on this, “You will soon understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back.”
- Is it really possible to juggle the five balls of life? How do you keep all of them in the air?
- How would you answer Dyson’s question, “What is education for? Is it for the pursuit of knowledge or for the pursuit of significance?“? Expand.
- Do many of us tend to use education for life or just as a living? Share your point of view.
- What is your own personal mantra when it comes to balancing work and life?