A new survey reveals that Brits are keen to spark joy in their lives by engaging more in activities they love rather than ticking off must-do tasks. The survey, put together by giffgaff, sheds light on the top 50 experiences and pastimes Brits hope to embrace more eagerly this year as limited time usually stops them from doing so
CEO of giffgaff Ash Schofield is promoting a less-is-more ethos, advising: "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."
He also noted that the research shows Brits are keen on dedicating more time to themselves and their loved ones. He said: "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."
For those looking to inject some fun and fulfilment into their routine, giffgaff has rolled out a 'Spin the Wheel' digital feature full of weekly prompts aimed at boosting well-being across various aspects of life, such as health, leisure, social bonds, and managing finances.
This interactive tool also offers the option to sync with users' calendars, providing gentle nudges to help them stay on track.
An overwhelming 86 per cent consider it essential to carve out time for activities that boost their wellbeing and the poll shows the top way Brits plan on doing this is by prioritising fitness and hobbies, as well as dedicating more time to creative activities.
Beyond this, Brits also yearn for more spontaneous joy-bringing moments. This could include an unexpected heartfelt text message, deeper conversations, or being made a tea without prompting.
Ash Schofield remarked: "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 wishing for no surprise bills this year - this is something we hope to help people avoid, with no-mid contract price rises."
giffgaff presents its subscribers with the option to tweak their data plan costs monthly to meet their budgetary constraints.
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