Pressures of modern life make it hard for Brits to find time for everything
By ANIMonday, February 7, 2011
LONDON - A survey has found that more than half of the UK adult population feel they are unable to balance work, health, relationships and aspirations due to the pressures of modern life.
The second annual Priorities of Life Index by Scottish Widows reveals that about seven out of ten British adults (71 percent, or 35 million people) are finding it an uphill struggle to devote enough time to their priorities in life.
Health is the most neglected area, with 45 percent of people complaining they are unable to get as much exercise, as they need, and nearly four in ten people (38 percent) feel they are neglecting their health in general.
According to more than 2,000 adults interviewed for the poll, financial pressures are as strong as ever, despite the recession officially ending late last year.
The results suggested about 18 million people are unable to save enough (38 percent in 2011, against 39 percent in 2010’s survey) while a similar number (35 percent) worry they are neglecting their overall financial security as the economic downturn continues to stifle the economy.
Even something as basic as having fun appears to be proving hard to fit in, with 44 percent of respondents saying they just did not have enough time to factor in some laughs.
The index also sees 19 million people admitting they feel unable to commit enough time to their partners, 31 percent keen to have more time with their friends, and more than ten million parents and grandparents worried they are not making enough time for their children or grandchildren.
Christine Webber, a psychotherapist and life coach, said taking control was a vital part of rebalancing priorities.
Iain McGowan, a savings expert at Scottish Widows, said a “financial audit” could help give peace of mind.
“We remain in difficult times. Brits are still unable to give their health, wealth or home life as much priority as they would like,” the Scotsman quoted him as saying.
“Although it can seem daunting, taking the first steps towards improving your financial outlook is vital in getting control over other areas of your life.
“These steps can be as simple as making the most of this year’s Isa allowance or making sure your family is protected should something happen to you,” he added. (ANI)
