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Want to deliver extra pleasure and happiness to your life? Try this new instrument

A new study has revealed how Brits would like to spend their time in 2025, with nearly two thirds wanting to do more of the things that make them happy

Shot of diverse group of cheerful young people talking and laughing while walking through the city.
Brits want to carve out more time for themselves and their loved ones(Image: Getty Images)

This year, Brits are keen to spend more time doing what they love rather than what have to do. A new survey has unveiled the top 50 activities and experiences people want to prioritise to achieve this.

According to the poll, 29% want to make more time for exercise, 27% would like to make time for hobbies and 17% would like to dedicate more time to being more creative.

To help, mobile network giffgaff has developed a unique ‘Spin the Wheel’ tool. This digital tool offers weekly suggestions across categories like health, social life, and personal finance—and even syncs with phone calendars to send friendly reminders.

From trying out a new sport to writing poetry, the tool encourages people to step outside their comfort zones and explore new experiences.

The study by giffgaff highlights a clear desire among Brits to carve out more time for themselves and their loved ones. However, despite aspirations to dedicate two hours a week to these pursuits, 43% cite lack of time as a big hurdle.

“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.”

So if you’re looking to inject more joy into your 2025 why not give this ‘Spin the Wheel’ a whirl?

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The survey also revealed that wellbeing is a top priority for many, with 86% adults agree it’s vital to carve out time for activities that bring positivity to their lives.

For 62%, the ultimate goal is to simply feel good, while 56% turn to these hobbies and experiences to boost their mood. But the year of self-care isn’t just about ticking off new hobbies or tackling financial goals.

Brits are also yearning for unexpected moments of joy, such as receiving a surprise text message from a loved one, enjoying a deep conversation, or having someone thoughtfully offer to make them a cup of tea.

Ash Schofield chimed in: “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.”

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TOP 50 THINGS PEOPLE WANT MORE OF THIS YEAR:

  1. Good news
  2. Walks
  3. Travel
  4. Time in nature
  5. Time to read
  6. No surprise bills
  7. Weather nice enough to hang a wash out on the line
  8. Opportunities to make savings on shopping/bills
  9. Hugs from loved ones
  10. Time for exercise
  11. Spontaneous day trips
  12. Time for my hobbies
  13. Dining out
  14. Uninterrupted time to relax
  15. Ticking off decorating/DIY jobs in my home
  16. Time with my children
  17. Dates with partner/potential partner
  18. New TV series to binge
  19. Dates with friend
  20. Road trips
  21. Trips to the cinema
  22. Cook meals from scratch
  23. Favourite supermarket items on offer
  24. To feel more connected to others
  25. Film nights at home
  26. More live music
  27. Buying new clothes for myself
  28. Time to be creative
  29. Surprise gifts (e.g. no occasion)
  30. Deep/meaningful conversations
  31. Unexpected generosity from businesses e.g. discounts, freebies
  32. Lie-ins
  33. Thoughtful/unexpected texts/messages
  34. Days off work with no plans
  35. Spontaneous shopping/treats for myself
  36. Hitting fitness personal bests (e.g. running, weightlifting)
  37. A family day free of plans
  38. Time for baking
  39. Unexpected visits from friends/family
  40. Traffic lights turning green as I approach them
  41. Unexpected meals cooked for me
  42. Buying fresh flowers for no occasion
  43. Public transport running on time
  44. Time to study / learn a new skill
  45. Time with my grandchildren
  46. Excuses to get dressed up
  47. Compliments from a stranger
  48. Praise at work
  49. Others picking up some of my household chores
  50. To thank others more

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