The Power of First Impressions: Can We Change Them?

Article Level: A2

Explanation: This article explains what first impressions are and why they are powerful. It also shows that we can change them over time with kindness, honesty, and patience. Readers learn how to give second chances and understand others better through simple daily actions.

Commonly Used Words from the Article

1. Impression /ɪmˈprɛʃən/ (noun): A feeling or idea about someone or something.

   My first impression of her was very good.

2. Change /tʃeɪndʒ/ (verb): To make something different.

   You can change someone’s opinion over time.

3. Kind /kaɪnd/ (adjective): Nice and caring.

   She is always kind to new students.

4. Effort /ˈɛfət/ (noun): The use of energy to do something.

   He made an effort to arrive on time.

5. Trust /trʌst/ (verb): To believe someone is honest.

   I trust my best friend completely.
   
   

Read more: The Power of First Impressions: Can We Change Them?

The Power of First Impressions: Can We Change Them?

When we meet someone for the first time, we often make quick decisions. This is called a first impression. It happens in just a few seconds. We look at how the person speaks, acts, and dresses. Sometimes, these first impressions are right. But other times, they are wrong.

First impressions are powerful. They help us feel safe or alert. For example, if someone smiles and speaks kindly, we may trust them. But if someone looks angry or rude, we might avoid them. These ideas stay in our minds and can be hard to change.

But can we change a first impression? The good news is yes, we can. It takes time and effort, but it is possible.

Let’s say you meet a new colleague at work. On the first day, they seem quiet and cold. You may think they are not friendly. But later, you learn they were nervous. As you speak more with them, you find they are kind and helpful. Your idea of them changes. This shows that second chances are important.

To change a bad first impression, the key is consistency. You need to show your true self again and again. Be friendly, honest, and respectful. Over time, people may start to see you differently.

It is also important not to judge others too quickly. Try to give people time. Ask questions and listen carefully. You may learn something new about them that you did not expect.

Changing someone’s mind takes patience. It does not happen in one day. But small actions can make a big difference. A simple smile, a kind word, or being helpful can change how people see you.

In today’s world, we meet people in many ways – face to face, online, or on the phone. In all these situations, first impressions still matter. So, be aware of how you act and speak. At the same time, remember that everyone makes mistakes. We all deserve a chance to show who we really are.

In conclusion, first impressions are strong, but they are not final. People can grow and change. With time, honesty, and kindness, we can change how others see us — and how we see them.

Grammar Notes

Focus Grammar: Present Simple and Modal Verb “Can”

• Present Simple is used to talk about facts and routines.
  Example: “First impressions are powerful.”

  • Subject + base verb (+ s/es for he/she/it).

• Modal verb “can” shows possibility or ability.
  Example: “We can change a first impression.”

  • Structure: Subject + can + base verb.

Mini Lesson:
Use the present simple to talk about what is true in general. Use “can” to talk about what is possible.
Example:

• People can learn from their mistakes.

• A smile shows you are friendly.
  
  

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Five Questions Based on the Article

• What is a first impression?

• Why do we make quick decisions about people?

• Can we change a bad first impression?

• What helps us change someone’s idea about us?

• Why is it important to give people a second chance?
  
  

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