Half of Brits miss out on life’s rewards by saying no.
The poll of 2,000 adults found 39% have fallen into a mindset of finding reasons not to do certain things rather than identify reasons why they should. And more than half (51%) claim this approach has led them to miss out on what could have been rewarding moments.
Despite the tendency to say ‘no’, 49% are eager to change this mindset and embrace opportunities they might have previously avoided.
While 21% are determined to say yes more, 24% have felt inspired to do so due to a burst of confidence (48%), encouragement from family and friends (42%) and other people’s social media posts (17%).
The research was commissioned by Seedlip as part of the alcohol free spirit’s ‘Drink Interesting’ campaign, which aims to inspiring the nation live a life filled with interesting experiences and creating memories.
Spokesperson Lucy Barrett said the brand wants to “encourage others to say yes more” as well as “have more fun and feel more empowered.”
The research also found 41% have regretted not saying yes to something in the past, including a night out (33%), a date (26%) and job offer (25%). And a fifth (21%) are envious of people who say yes to every opportunity that comes their way.
However, a desire to live life to the full (46%), greater acceptance of uniqueness (18%) and encouragement via social media (10%) would help people take more leaps. Seeing others live ‘their best life’ online makes those polled feel inspired (19%) and motivated (18%).
Nearly three in 10 (28%) admitted to having encouraged someone else to say yes to something in the past despite not doing so themselves. But 30% agreed they’ve taken opportunities that have come their way more with age.
Those polled via OnePoll believe the best things about saying yes more would be a chance to experience new things (41%) and learn something (34%).
A further 33% would enjoy stepping outside of their comfort zone and 27% would embrace the feeling of spontaneity. One in 10 have tried to say yes to something for a whole day, which made them feel motivated (37%), excited (36%) and happy (34%).