A FIFTH of adults believe they miss out on rewarding moments – because they say ‘no’ too much, according to research.
The poll of 2,000 adults found 39 per cent 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 per cent) claim this approach has led them to miss out on what could have been rewarding moments.
Despite the tendency to say ‘no’, 49 per cent are eager to change this mindset and embrace opportunities they might have previously avoided.
While 21 per cent are determined to say yes more, 24 per cent have felt inspired to do so due to a burst of confidence (48 per cent), encouragement from family and friends (42 per cent) and other people’s social media posts (17 per cent).
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 per cent have regretted not saying yes to something in the past, including a night out (33 per cent), a date (26 per cent) and job offer (25 per cent).
And a fifth (21 per cent) are envious of people who say yes to every opportunity that comes their way.
However, a desire to live life to the full (46 per cent), greater acceptance of uniqueness (18 per cent) and encouragement via social media (10 per cent) would help people take more leaps.
Seeing others live ‘their best life’ online makes those polled feel inspired (19 per cent) and motivated (18 per cent).
Nearly three in 10 (28 per cent) admitted to having encouraged someone else to say yes to something in the past despite not doing so themselves.
But 30 per cent 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 per cent) and learn something (34 per cent).
A further 33 per cent would enjoy stepping outside of their comfort zone and 27 per cent 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 per cent), excited (36 per cent) and happy (34 per cent).
