A new survey has revealed that six in 10 UK adults are putting off improving their lives because they are too busy with work. The research, conducted by YouGov on behalf of the charity Action for Happiness, found that 60% of respondents said they lack the time or energy to make positive changes such as taking up a new hobby, exercising more, or spending more time with loved ones.
Work Pressures and Lack of Energy
The survey, which polled 2,000 British adults, highlighted that work is the biggest barrier to personal improvement. Nearly half of those surveyed (48%) said they feel too tired after work to do anything else, while 39% said they do not have enough time for themselves. The findings suggest that many people are stuck in a cycle of work and rest, with little opportunity for personal growth.
According to the charity, the results are concerning because they indicate that people are not able to prioritise their well-being. Action for Happiness is calling on employers to do more to support their staff, such as offering flexible working hours and encouraging regular breaks. The charity also suggests that individuals can try to make small changes to their daily routines, such as setting aside time for a hobby or going for a walk during lunch breaks.
Impact on Mental Health
The survey also found that those who do not take time to improve their lives are more likely to report feeling unhappy or stressed. Among those who said they were too busy to make changes, 44% described their mental health as poor or very poor, compared to just 22% of those who did find time for self-improvement. This suggests that taking time for oneself could have a significant impact on overall well-being.
Action for Happiness has released a list of ten recommended actions to help people improve their well-being, including connecting with others, being active, and taking notice of the present moment. The charity hopes that by encouraging people to make small changes, they can begin to break the cycle of work-related stress.
Employers' Role
The research comes as many companies are reviewing their working practices in the wake of the pandemic. Some firms have introduced four-day weeks or more flexible hours to help employees achieve a better work-life balance. However, the survey suggests that more needs to be done, as many workers still feel overwhelmed.
Mark Williamson, director of Action for Happiness, said: "It's worrying that so many people are putting off the things that could make their lives happier and healthier because they're too busy working. We need to create a culture where it's OK to take time for ourselves and where employers recognise that a happy workforce is a productive workforce."
He added: "We would encourage everyone to try to make at least one small change this week, whether it's going for a walk, calling a friend, or taking up a hobby. It doesn't have to be a big commitment – just something that makes you feel good."
The survey's findings highlight the need for a more balanced approach to work and life, and the potential benefits for both individuals and businesses if that balance is achieved.
