Researchers found Brits are shunning long-term commitments in all aspects of their life – including relationships, work, and even their gym membership.
As a nation, it appears we’re rethinking our approach to long-term commitments as one in four Brits admit to being scared of commitment, according to a recent study. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 21% have chosen to rent rather than buy a home due to uncertainty about where they want to settle long-term.
Worrying about future needs and whether they might change their minds later down the line, 33% have decided against gym memberships and 15% said would rather lease or borrow a car than buy one. Moreover, 13% recoiled at the idea staying in a job for more than a year.
Over half considered being tied into a long-term commitment ‘very’ or ‘quite stressful’. For this reason, eight out of ten respondents said flexibility was important to them.
For those already living a more flexible lifestyle, three quarters say life is simpler and a third said moving away from commitments has improved their quality of life by giving them a greater sense of control. They may be down to feeling less ‘trapped’ or anxious about making the wrong choice.
Marc Pell, the managing director at temporary car insurance firm Tempcover, which carried out the study, said: “Flexibility is paramount in today’s fast-changing world; it’s driving a shift away from long-term commitments in favour of adaptable options like phone contracts, gym memberships and car ownership.
“This re-think of traditional models reflects a desire for temporary services that suit evolving needs in real-time. After all, finances can fluctuate, and personal circumstances evolve, making flexibility more valuable than ever.”
Of those who value flexibility, 56% cherish time for personal hobbies and interests, while 39% want the freedom to travel or embark on a spontaneous trip.
The survey also revealed that 44% would consider using a streaming service without a long-term contract, while 39% would contemplate a flexible mobile phone plan they could pick up and drop when it was suitable for them.
In addition, 21% expressed interest in temporary car insurancee that could allow them to borrow a car or share a long drive, if necessary.
Marc Pell, from Tempcover, further added: “This shift towards temporary isn’t necessarily about avoiding commitment altogether; rather it reflects a deeper focus on self-determination.
“As expectations change, rigid contracts and outdated structures may no longer fit a world where convenience and personalisation takes precedence, giving people greater freedom and control to shape their lives as they choose to.”
