Hobbies are more than just a pastime – they provide stability in everyday life. More and more people are consciously using their free time for personal interests to unwind and recharge. Older people and those who are financially better off especially benefit from the stabilizing effect of regular activities. But younger people are also increasingly discovering hobbies as a refuge in our fast-paced lives.
A good hobby can slow us down, connect us, and inspire us. But who even has one anymore? And why do so many people find it so hard to find one that truly suits them? In this episode, learn how the meaning of hobbies has changed, why they are more important than ever in our fast-paced world – and what it takes for people to (re)discover the courage to try new things and do what truly fulfills them.
Leisure time is more than just relaxation – it reflects our times. But how do Germans spend their free time today? And what does it mean in the age of streaming, self-realization, and constant availability? In this episode, find out how our leisure activities have changed, what we really need today – and why leisure time could become more than ever a space for regeneration, social engagement, and the search for meaning in the future.
What do Germans actually do in their free time – and what does that say about our times? The new Leisure Monitor 2025 reveals a diverse mix of media use, relaxation, and activity, ranging from streaming and smartphone use to walks. Almost everyone is online, many relax by doing nothing – and more than half exercise regularly. Leisure time is becoming more individual, spontaneous, and often digital. But at the same time, the desire for exercise, peace and quiet, and genuine connection is growing.
Germans' leisure time is increasingly taking place "on demand"—a key finding of the latest Leisure Monitor 2025. For this long-term study, conducted by the BAT Foundation for Future Issues for the past 40 years, over 3,000 German citizens aged 18 and over were surveyed in June of this year, representing the population, about their leisure activities and their satisfaction with them. The detailed analysis reveals several structural changes: While media consumption is becoming more digital and personal, sporting activities and simple forms of recreation such as walking or reading are gaining in importance—while traditional social contacts are declining slightly.
Travel is and remains a place of longing – but how, when, and with what expectations do Germans actually travel today? The latest tourism study reveals: A new area of tension has emerged between individualization, digital influences, and growing climate awareness.
Life in the countryside is experiencing a comeback – at least in many people's imaginations. But what does it take for this longing to become reality? And what opportunities does rural life truly offer? In this episode, find out under what conditions the countryside becomes attractive to many again, which innovative concepts are being tested worldwide – and why more than idyllic nature is needed for rural life to become a genuine alternative for all generations.
The desire for rural life is strong – but it comes with clear conditions. Good digital connectivity and reliable public transport are particularly important. Many appreciate peace and quiet and nature, but don't want to forgo access to amenities and services. For rural areas to be a truly attractive place to live, investments in infrastructure, community, and flexibility are needed.
Smart homes are already a reality – yet only twelve percent of the population can imagine living in one full-time. The reasons for this reluctance range from data privacy concerns to fears of dependency and loss of control. At the same time, many people already use individual smart applications, often without even realizing it. Yet, connected living holds great potential for greater comfort, security, and energy efficiency in everyday life.
Voice control, networked heating systems, automated routines – the smart home is already a reality. But how much technology do we really want in our homes? And what does it actually offer in everyday life? In this episode, find out what opportunities smart home solutions offer for comfort, security, and sustainability, where they reach their limits – and why it's less about gimmicks and more about new ways of living and together.
Foundation for Future Studies | Contact us | Legal notice | Data protection
Foundation for Future Studies | Contact us | Legal notice | Data protection
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