A poll of 2,000 adults has found that eight in 10 Brits say they need more excitement in their life as a hefty two-thirds of Brits aren't feeling fulfilled by the way things are at the moment.
The study, commissioned by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), pointed out that 27% reckon a mental and physical challenge might help give them a sense of purpose, while a quarter fancy taking up a new hobby as a potential remedy.
But, there's a snag; 21% of those polled reckon they'd probably not bother giving something new a whirl, blaming stuff like not enough hours in the day and feeling too old. Confidence was also a key barrier, with one in three finding it tough to leap out of their cosy comfort zone.
Despite this, 18% are more likely to stick to goals that do good for others over themselves. Plus, three in four would hold firm to commitments that tickle their brain-box in a satisfying way.
When it comes to doing stuff for others 59% stressed the perks of pitching in locally, and 53% have got the urge to do more than they do for charity. Dan Geneen, head of fundraising at BHF, said: "Feeling unfulfilled isn't uncommon, but it's great to see so many people want to change this."
He emphasised the importance of just getting started through small steps such as increasing the amount you exercise or getting outside more regularly. But he also highlighted that smaller steps can lead to bigger things: "setting yourself a challenge like signing up to charity events within your community can really help give you that sense of purpose."
Hannah Freeman from Bristol is gearing up for a personal challenge of her own. The 32 year old mum-of-four is getting ready to pedal from London to Brighton in the BHF's iconic 54-mile bike ride.
She's doing it all for her daughter Belle, aged 12, who was born with a heart defect and has braved three heart ops since 2012.
First-time cyclist Hannah is hitting the road with her best mate Lauren to raise cash for the research that's been a lifesaver for her little girl. "Belle is my inspiration," Hannah shared. "She's so strong, very practical, and positive. We say that Belle lives with heart disease not everyone lives with heart disease."
"I feel like I'm limited in what I can do as Belle's mum. Raising money for the British Heart Foundation is something I can do that's positive, tangible, and within my control," she added.
"It makes me feel proud to know that by taking on this cycling challenge, I'm having a positive impact not just on Belle's life, but on many others across the UK who live with heart disease. I know Belle is proud too."
January, often seen as a time for new beginnings, is the best month to embark on something new according to the study. The research revealed that 65% of individuals had previously tried to pick up a new hobby before the New Year, but only half succeeded in maintaining it.
Over a third were motivated to engage in activities such as running, swimming, or volunteering due to a longing for more fulfilment, while 34% aimed to enhance their mental health.
Dan Geneen stressed the significance of taking the plunge: "The risk of trying something new can pay off, despite it feeling overwhelming at first."
"In 2025, we want to help people feel a sense of fulfilment and achieve their goals. By completing an event for our charity, you're not only challenging yourself but also raising vital funds for lifesaving research," he added.
The BHF hosts a variety of fundraising events, including the London to Brighton Bike Ride, the Bournemouth Pier to Pier Swim, and the Great North Run.
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