Britons may not be renowned for their sunny dispositions – but there could be a good reason for that.
A survey has found we endure an average of 84 bad days a year, triggered by all manner of mishaps and misfortunes.
Top of the list of problems that bring us down is a bad night’s sleep, which was cited by 45 per cent of the 2,000 people surveyed. This was followed by losing a wallet or purse (35 per cent) and smashing a phone (also 35 per cent).
Losing keys (34 per cent) or having a tiff with our other half (32 per cent) also tipped us into a bad mood, along with stepping in dog mess (29 per cent) and having a bad hair day (16 per cent).
Trying on a new outfit only to find it is too tight or does not look good saddened 30 per cent of us while getting a bad haircut annoyed 13 per cent.
The study also showed that many of us believe in bad luck, with 36 per cent avoiding opening an umbrella indoors and 43 per cent thinking the power of the planets in astrology can contribute to a poor day.
(Stock Image) Top of the list of problems that bring us down is a bad night’s sleep, which was cited by 45 per cent of the 2,000 people surveyed
(Stock Image) Arguing with our partners was another reason for getting us down, which was cited by 32 per cent of respondents
But most Britons are a resilient bunch with more than 68 per cent saying they still feel thankful and appreciative of what they have despite encountering problems.
The research also revealed things that make us feel better after a bad day. They included a good night’s sleep (55 per cent), being asked by a friend if we are OK (43 per cent) and kicking back on the sofa with a favourite TV show (42 per cent).
Lorna Brown, of online marketplace Not On The High Street which commissioned the survey, said: ‘It’s great to see from the research that, despite regularly experiencing bad days, the majority of Brits appreciate the little things in life.’
The research suggests plenty of Brits believe in bad luck, with over a third (36 per cent) avoiding opening an umbrella indoors, and three in ten refusing to put new shoes on a table, to avoid triggering a bad day.
And almost a fifth (18 per cent) avoid stepping on cracks in the pavement, while 12 per cent admit they’re suspicious of black cats.
Meanwhile 43 per cent of us believe that astrological moments contribute to having a bad day.
And 44 per cent of the nation is now aware of the idea of Mercury being in Retrograde – a period of time which according to astrology, means that all forms of communication can be affected and dampen our spirits – and something that is occurring until Oct 2.
To try and counteract this period, 52 per cent of modern Brits will try to focus on being mindful, 45 per cent will take some time to reflect and three in ten will turn to journalling.
14 per cent even confess to carrying crystals to keep “bad vibes” away, while 13 per cent burn sage to rid their home of any negative energy.
And 38 per cent believe it’s best to try and always have a positive mindset generally when it comes to what kind of day we might have, while one in two believe that laughter is the best medicine.