Age Brits are likely to say ‘yes’ to new things and top things they’d like to do

Brits are most likely to embrace new opportunities at the tender age of 27, according to research. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that on average, Brits tend to turn something down at least twice a week. Seven out of ten confess to sticking to their comfort zones, yet an ambitious four in ten are keen to say ‘yes’ more often, while others hope to be less ‘afraid’ of taking on new challenges in the future.

It emerged 26% of over 35s feel they are more likely to say yes to opportunities now, than they did 20 years ago. For those less adventurous, being settled into a routine was considered the biggest barrier, while others blamed life being more complicated now, being too tired and wanting to plan things in advance.

The study was commissioned by Halfords, which is partnering with ‘Yes Man’, Danny Wallace, to highlight the positive benefits of being open to new experiences this summer.

Danny Wallace said: “Twenty years ago I decided to say ‘yes’ to whatever came my way… and it led to the best adventures. I went places I would never have gone and I met people I’d never have met. I tried new things and made new memories.

“So, when Halfords asked me to celebrate twenty years by hopping in a car and trying more new stuff, it would have been weird to say no.

“Even though when they asked me if I’d like ‘to go sea kayaking’, I thought they meant they were just going to take me to ‘see kayaking’, which would have been a lot easier.

“That said, saying yes more is something we should all try and build into our days. Yes to something different or new. I wholeheartedly support you doing the same this summer.”

The study revealed that learning a new language was the number one thing Brits say ‘yes’ to, closely followed by skydiving, picking up a musical instrument, and living overseas. Going to gigs and concerts, getting a tattoo and running a marathon also featured in the top 20 list.

The research, conducted by OnePoll, also discovered that 27% have been told by peers that they should say yes more often.

Paul Ray from Halfords, promoting their ‘Free 5 Point Summer Check’ for cars, remarked: “While Brits might get set in their ways, 62% feel they would be more likely to say YES if they felt ready for anything, especially when the sun’s out and the kids are off school.

“Saying ‘yes’ more often can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Whether it’s trying something new, meeting someone unexpected, or stepping slightly out of your comfort zone, those small yeses can add up to big life shifts.

“Don’t let worrying about the car be the reason you say ‘no’ to a last-minute trip to the beach or a spontaneous camping weekend.”