A recent study conducted by Tourism New Zealand has shed light on the favorite ways in which Brits embark on a journey of self-discovery. The study, which surveyed 2,000 adults, revealed that a significant portion of the British population has never truly embarked on this journey, with 47 percent of respondents admitting that they have not completely come to terms with their true selves. Additionally, only 28 percent of those surveyed expressed contentment with their current life situation.
Among the respondents who have engaged in or are currently pursuing self-discovery, a remarkable 83 percent consider it a success. However, more than a third of individuals (34 percent) believe that traveling abroad would significantly enhance their chances of finding themselves. Within this group, 55 percent expressed a desire to experience an entirely different culture as a means of broadening their horizons.
Apart from travel, other popular methods of self-discovery among Brits include undertaking a digital detox, embracing daily empowerment practices, and exploring new career paths. Some individuals also believe that activities such as yoga, meditation, and starting a TikTok channel can aid in the process of self-discovery.
The study further revealed that a substantial majority of participants (76 percent) consider self-understanding to be important. Building self-confidence emerged as the primary motivation for engaging in self-discovery, cited by 51 percent of respondents. Discovering one’s full potential (45 percent) and learning from past mistakes (41 percent) were also identified as significant incentives for embarking on this journey.
In terms of preferred destinations for self-discovery, New Zealand topped the list among Brits, followed by Australia, Canada, and the United States. The appeal of these countries lies in their potential to provide a transformative experience and a fresh perspective on life.
Sarah Handley, the general manager for the Americas and Europe at New Zealand Tourism, expressed delight in the UK’s interest in self-discovery, noting that many individuals are stepping out of their comfort zones and seeking new adventures to improve their overall well-being and self-understanding. Handley highlighted New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich indigenous culture as factors that make it an ideal destination for self-reflection and personal growth.
To explore how Tourism New Zealand can assist those on a journey of self-discovery, please visit their website.
Here is a list of the top 30 activities that Brits are engaging in to find themselves, according to the study:
- Reading more
- Travelling the world
- Removing negative people from their lives
- Exploring the great outdoors
- Learning about and experiencing a new culture
- Being more present in the moment
- Surrounding themselves with like-minded people
- Picking up a new hobby (e.g., knitting, doing puzzles, cooking, pottery)
- Changing career paths
- Volunteering at a charity
- Cleaning and clearing out their homes
- Spending less time using devices
- Learning about different ideologies and religions
- Practicing yoga and meditation
- Writing a journal or book
- Escaping the city
- Trying out different music and discovering new artists
- Moving to another country
- Exploring their sexuality and having new experiences
- Learning a new language
- Engaging in daily manifestations and empowerment
- Quitting alcohol consumption
- Watching culturally and artistically significant movies
- Setting up a side hustle
- Experimenting with fashion
- Deleting all social media accounts
- Living a zero-waste lifestyle
- Petitioning for social justice causes
- Exploring crystals and astrology
- Starting a TikTok channel
Lastly, the study identified the top ten countries Brits believe are the best to visit in order to embark on a journey of self-discovery. The list includes:
- New Zealand
- Australia
- USA
- Canada
- Italy
- Japan
- Greece
- Spain
- Switzerland
- Iceland
If you’re interested in embarking on a journey of self-discovery, consider exploring these destinations and immersing yourself in their unique cultures and experiences.
