Planless leisure time - why spontaneity is becoming increasingly popular

Result

More and more people report regularly engaging in spontaneous leisure activities, simply doing whatever they feel like. While ten years ago "only" about one in three said they spent their free time unplanned at least once a week, now it's almost one in two. Within the population, it is particularly young adults and retirees who enjoy this freedom, while parents are less likely to spontaneously decide what they want to do.

Reasons

The reasons for this change are manifold. Undoubtedly, increasing flexibility in the working world creates more time for spontaneous leisure activities. The growing availability of digital media and social networks also plays a role, as these allow people to access information about offers and options anytime, anywhere, and to discuss and coordinate spontaneous plans with others at short notice.
This development can also be understood as a reaction to the growing complexity and speed of our society. In a world characterized by constant accessibility and a high degree of planning and organization, more and more people yearn for a certain lightheartedness and spontaneity. In this sense, spontaneous gut decisions are often also a way to escape everyday stress and recharge.
The high level of agreement among young adults and retirees can be explained by their respective life situations. While young adults often don't yet have a family and have fewer obligations, retirees can freely structure their time and don't have to consider the demands of their workday. Parents, on the other hand, are often heavily involved in their families and daily lives and have less time and energy for spontaneous activities.

Forecast

Increasingly, citizens will value their freedom and self-determination and consciously make time for their personal interests. As a counterpoint to the current overthinking, self-presentation on social media, and the optimization of leisure time, spontaneity will experience a renaissance, leading to greater individual satisfaction and ultimately an improved quality of life.
Instead of jumping from one highlight to the next, many citizens will spontaneously decide what feels good to them in that moment, even at the risk of perhaps missing out on something. These spontaneous activities will range from relaxing in the bathtub to going to the cinema or meeting up with neighbors or friends on the spur of the moment.