Survey says spontaneity peaks at this age

By Gemma Francis, 72Point via SWNS

Spontaneity peaks at the age of 31 - before tailing off just six years later.

A study of 1,000 adults found they are at their most impulsive in their early thirties, due to a desire to have fun (51 percent) and lack of responsibility (47 percent).

This is coupled with fewer financial commitments (44 percent) and more disposable income (40 percent), while 39 percent put it down to having less fear at that age.

But it soon changes, as 37 was revealed as the least spontaneous age - thanks to an increase in responsibilities (42 percent), having a young family (37 percent) and a need to be more sensible (30 percent).

It also emerged 47 percent wish they were more spontaneous in life, especially when it comes to their social lives (37 percent), friendships (31 percent) and traveling (29 percent).

A spokesperson for Skyscanner, which commissioned the research, said: “Spontaneity is proven to reduce stress and increase levels of self-esteem, along with promoting contentment and harmony in close relationships.

“Spontaneity has been directly affected over the last couple of years by the pandemic and breaking free from these constricting behaviors is key to getting back on track and also to boosting well-being.”

The study also found just 12 percent of the adults polled describe themselves as very spontaneous, with 38 percent admitting they are the opposite and rarely step out of their comfort zone.

But men are slightly more so than women (63 percent compared to 61 percent).

For 23 percent, simply going on an unplanned night out is among the most spontaneous things they have done, while 16 percent said the same of dying their hair.

Others have gone on a last-minute date (15 percent), bought a car (15 percent) or even got married (11 percent) on the spur of the moment.

When it comes to travel, 28 percent those polled, via OnePoll, have been surprised by a spontaneous trip from someone else, and 32 percent have booked a trip to a location they knew nothing about.

More than one in three UK travelers have even arrived at the airport without a ticket or destination in mind and would do so again.

And for respondents over 65, it emerged that of life’s valuable experiences, travel ranked highest.

It comes after Skyscanner flight data revealed last minute trips (booked seven days or less before departure) are increasing in popularity by 14 percent compared to pre-pandemic.

A spokesperson added: “Sometimes you may want to be spontaneous but may feel held back by responsibilities, finances and even fear.

“But while it may seem scary to just pack a bag and hop on a plane, being spontaneous can be exhilarating - and there is nothing is more freeing than travel.

“And it doesn’t need to be something big. Simply planning less than you usually would for something such as a trip away or taking a chance on an unknown destination, will remind you of the possibilities that are out there.

“Being flexible with where and when you go away, and using our Everywhere tool, can also save you money as well as allowing you to be more adventurous."

The study also found after making a spontaneous decision, 34 percent feel excited and 27 percent feel happy.

Others feel carefree (23 percent) and exhilarated (21 percent), although 17 percent also admit to being worried.

However, 61 percent are looking to be more spontaneous post pandemic, after 53 percent said Covid stopped them from doing this.

Following the findings Skyscanner is giving people the chance to win their own spontaneous trip away this month to help rediscover the joy of travel.

The NOMOFOMO campaign is on the brand’s Instagram and Facebook now.