A recent study of 2,000 adults revealed that Generation Z is inclined to revamp their lifestyles by reducing their use of social media and screen time in favor of spending more time outdoors and connecting with nature. The study found that 76% of Gen Z individuals are determined to make positive changes this year, with a significant portion aiming to enhance their physical activity levels, hydration, and body composition.
Interestingly, a third of this demographic is planning to embrace a healthier diet, increase their reading habits, and reestablish a connection with the natural environment. On the other hand, only a small percentage are contemplating giving up caffeine, adopting new hobbies, or quitting smoking.
The study identified several obstacles hindering these lifestyle changes, such as lack of motivation, insufficient time, and delayed results. Additionally, a notable percentage of individuals cited a lack of desire to change as a barrier to forming new habits.
According to behavioral psychologist Jo Hemmings, younger adults find change more achievable when broken down into feasible, incremental steps rather than attempting a complete lifestyle overhaul. She emphasized the importance of setting manageable goals that seamlessly integrate into daily routines to make progress sustainable and less overwhelming.
Jo highlighted that progress is not always linear and recognizing this can help individuals stay motivated rather than discouraged. She emphasized that change is attainable and does not have to occur all at once.
Using smoking cessation as an example, Jo explained that the low numbers of individuals attempting to quit may indicate a shift towards alternative smoke-free options rather than complete cessation. This adaptive behavior allows individuals to make changes at a pace that feels manageable to them.
The research emphasized that starting with small, achievable goals is key to maintaining lifestyle changes. Additionally, common strategies for self-improvement include incorporating changes into daily routines, rewarding progress, and tracking improvements through apps or journals.
Engaging in activities with friends and family, celebrating milestones, and turning challenges into games were also identified as effective motivators for individuals looking to make positive changes. The study also revealed that these tactics are particularly beneficial for individuals attempting to quit smoking, with a majority of Gen Z participants attributing their success to small, gradual steps.
Furthermore, smoke-free alternatives, advice from healthcare professionals, incentives, and support from loved ones were cited as helpful factors for those attempting lifestyle changes. The main drivers for adults aiming to quit harmful habits were improving health, saving money, and prioritizing the well-being of their families.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our <a