What enables a seed to press through a fissure in stone, an eagle to maintain its course in turbulent skies, or a horse to run unrestrained?...

        What enables a seed to press through a fissure in stone, an eagle to maintain its course in turbulent skies, or a horse to run unrestrained? The answer is confidence—often the decisive catalyst of success. Without it, even highly capable people (31) ____________.

        A familiar illustration is Richard Nixon. In 1972, Nixon was seeking re-election as U.S. President, campaigning energetically nationwide. Many assumed he would secure a comfortable victory, given the accomplishments of his first term. Yet Nixon was burdened by insecurity. Haunted by the prospect of defeat, he made a grave misjudgment: he ordered his team to break into the Watergate Hotel to spy on his opponent. Once exposed, (32) ____________. The scandal escalated rapidly and culminated in his resignation, despite the fact that he had already won the election. (33) ____________.

        By contrast, Madame Curie exemplified the power that confidence can generate. In her pursuit of radium, she worked in a poorly equipped laboratory and endured harsh conditions. Many ridiculed her, yet she remained steadfast in her belief in her own ability. She famously insisted, "We must have perseverance, especially confidence!" (34) ____________. As a result of her pioneering accomplishments, she received two Nobel Prizes and became an enduring inspiration to generations that followed.

        Confidence equips us to confront adversity and pursue meaningful achievement. Ultimately, it is only those (35) ____________. Let us cultivate confidence and unlock the fullest measure of our potential.

Question 31.

A. encountering substantial obstacles while working towards success

B. who are liable to find it arduous to accomplish their aims

C. may still falter when striving to attain their objectives

D. encountered formidable impediments in the pursuit of their aspirations

Question 32.

A. accountability was evaded by means of suppressing the facts

B. the facts were suppressed in an effort to evade accountability

C. he attempted to suppress the facts and evade accountability

D. he endeavoured to unmask the facts and confront accountability

Question 33.

A. His insecurity triggered errors that effectively ended his political trajectory

B. His deficit of confidence precipitated his downfall and tarnished his standing

C. His miscalculations derailed both his public career and private life

D. His dread of losing drove him into recklessness and cost him everything

Question 34.

A. Her accomplishments mirrored the outlook that shaped her entire scientific career

B. The hardships she endured underscore the role of single-minded determination

C. Her life story stands as a testament to relentless perseverance and unwavering self-belief

D. These words encapsulate the outlook that guided her throughout her scientific journey

Question 35.

A. working inattentively and remaining focused invariably achieves success

B. who trust in their own abilities can turn aspirations into reality

C. whose determination is manifested can retain barriers in their path

D. never relinquishing their efforts are hesitantly able to realise their aims