A study of 2,000 adults found the average Brit typically turns something down as often as twice a week – but there’s one age where they are most likely to say ‘yes’
Brits are most likely to say ‘yes’ to new opportunities at the age of 27, a study has found. A survey involving 2,000 adults revealed that on average, people turn down opportunities twice a week, with seven out of ten sticking to their comfort zones.
The majority admit they ‘play it safe’ in life, but four in ten are determined to say ‘yes’ more often, while others hope to be less ‘afraid’ of taking on new challenges in the future. Interestingly, over a quarter of those aged over 35 believe they are more open to saying ‘yes’ now than two decades ago.
Of those who felt the opposite, being settled into a routine was considered the biggest barrier, while others blamed life being more complicated now, being too tired and wanting to plan things in advance.
The study was commissioned by Halfords, which is partnering with ‘Yes Man’, Danny Wallace, to highlight the positive benefits of being open to new experiences this summer.
Danny commented: “Twenty years ago I decided to say ‘yes’ to whatever came my way… and it led to the best adventures. I went places I would never have gone and I met people I’d never have met. I tried new things and made new memories.
“So, when Halfords asked me to celebrate twenty years by hopping in a car and trying more new stuff, it would have been weird to say no.”
He joked: “Even though when they asked me if I’d like ‘to go sea kayaking’, I thought they meant they were just going to take me to ‘see kayaking’, which would have been a lot easier.
“That said, saying yes more is something we should all try and build into our days. Yes to something different or new. I wholeheartedly support you doing the same this summer.”
According to the study, learning a foreign language topped the list of things Brits would like to attempt for the first time. Other popular pursuits included skydiving, mastering a musical instrument, and living abroad.
Attending gigs, getting a tattoo, and completing a marathon also featured in the top 20 list.
The survey also found that more than a quarter of Brits had been encouraged to say yes to new experiences, but over two thirds reckon they would be much more inclined to try something new if they were able to prepare for it in advance.
Halfords is encouraging people to give their car a ‘Free 5 Point Summer Check’ to ensure it’s ready for adventure.
Paul Ray, from the brand, said: “Saying ‘yes’ more often can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
“Whether it’s trying something new, meeting someone unexpected, or stepping slightly out of your comfort zone, those small yeses can add up to big life shifts.
“Don’t let worrying about the car be the reason you say ‘no’ to a last-minute trip to the beach or a spontaneous camping weekend.”
TOP 20 THINGS BRITS WOULD LIKE TO SAY YES TO FOR THE FIRST TIME:
- Learning a foreign language
- Skydive
- Learn a musical instrument
- Move abroad
- Move to the countryside
- Go to more gigs and concerts
- Retire
- Get a tattoo
- Go down a zip wire
- Run a marathon
- Learn how to dance
- Climb a mountain
- Try surfing
- Travel solo
- Start a new career
- Sea kayaking
- Go on a roadtrip
- Take up yoga
- Move to a different city
- Paint or draw