Brits shared the top 50 actions and experiences they want to encounter more often this year
This year, Britons are keen to prioritise activities they enjoy over tasks they need to do. If you’re looking to incorporate more joy-inducing activities into your routine this year, consider using the ‘Spin the Wheel’ tool for weekly inspiration.
This digital game can be synced with your phone calendar and will suggest a variety of activities from categories such as health, social life and personal finances.
The tool was developed following a survey of 2,000 adults which identified the top 50 activities and experiences they wish to engage in more frequently this year.
The study by giffgaff revealed that people are eager to carve out more time for themselves and their loved ones. However, despite intending to dedicate two hours per week to these pursuits, 43% cited lack of time as a significant obstacle.
“Whether it’s 10 minutes a day dedicated to a hobby, or spontaneous calls with friends or family these little acts can make a big difference,” said Ash Schofield, CEO of giffgaff.
He added: “Social lives seem to play a big part of the top 50 list, including dates with partners, friends and relatives and unexpected texts from loved ones.”
According to the survey, 29% of Brits want to allocate more time for exercise, 27% aim to make time for hobbies, and 17% wish to devote more time to creative pursuits.
When it comes to financial matters, 29% are eager for more opportunities to save on shopping and bills, while 16% would appreciate businesses offering more discounts and freebies.
A whopping 86% believe it’s crucial to make time for activities that positively impact their wellbeing. For 62%, the primary goal of engaging in these activities is simply to feel good, while 56% do them to enhance their mood.
However, it’s not just about adopting new activities and financial objectives. Brits also crave more unexpected moments that bring joy.
These could range from receiving unexpected thoughtful text messages, engaging in more meaningful conversations, or being made a cup of tea without asking.
Eight out of ten confessed that if someone does something nice for them, they’re more likely to reciprocate.
Ash Schofield commented: “The research suggests it’s the year for ‘me’, with people hoping to dedicate time to themselves, whether for relaxation or ticking things off their bucket list.
“Personal finance is high on the agenda, with almost a third hoping for no surprise bills this year – this is something we hope to help people avoid, with no-mid contract price rises.”
giffgaff, which provides its customers the flexibility to adjust the cost of their data allowance each month to suit their budget.
TOP 50 THINGS PEOPLE WANT MORE OF THIS YEAR:
- Good news
- Walks
- Travel
- Time in nature
- Time to read
- No surprise bills
- Weather nice enough to hang a wash out on the line
- Opportunities to make savings on shopping/bills
- Hugs from loved ones
- Time for exercise
- Spontaneous day trips
- Time for my hobbies
- Dining out
- Uninterrupted time to relax
- Ticking off decorating/DIY jobs in my home
- Time with my children
- Dates with partner/potential partner
- New TV series to binge
- Dates with friend
- Road trips
- Trips to the cinema
- Cook meals from scratch
- Favourite supermarket items on offer
- To feel more connected to others
- Film nights at home
- More live music
- Buying new clothes for myself
- Time to be creative
- Surprise gifts (e.g. no occasion)
- Deep/meaningful conversations
- Unexpected generosity from businesses e.g. discounts, freebies
- Lie-ins
- Thoughtful/unexpected texts/messages
- Days off work with no plans
- Spontaneous shopping/treats for myself
- Hitting fitness personal bests (e.g. running, weightlifting)
- A family day free of plans
- Time for baking
- Unexpected visits from friends/family
- Traffic lights turning green as I approach them
- Unexpected meals cooked for me
- Buying fresh flowers for no occasion
- Public transport running on time
- Time to study / learn a new skill
- Time with my grandchildren
- Excuses to get dressed up
- Compliments from a stranger
- Praise at work
- Others picking up some of my household chores
- To thank others more