Leisure time that's good for you: what we really enjoy today

Result

The closer and more intimate the social relationships, the higher the perceived fun factor. Joint activities clearly outperform passive, media-based or solo activities. For example, „spending time with your partner“ tops the list of leisure activities with the highest fun value - followed by activities with family and friends. Experiences outside the home, such as excursions, going to concerts or restaurants, are also perceived by the majority as particularly enjoyable.

In contrast, frequently performed activities such as television, social media, gardening or DIY are only perceived as particularly entertaining by a minority. The enjoyment of leisure time therefore appears to be characterised less by the activity itself than by its social context. It is not only the „what“, but above all the „with whom“ that determines the experience.

Reasons

The high level of satisfaction from shared activities can be explained by basic human needs for closeness, belonging and exchange. Spending time together with a partner creates trust, emotional security and strengthens the relationship through shared experiences. Family activities convey solidarity, continuity and intergenerational stability, while activities with friends provide social support and shared enjoyment.

What's more, emotions are more intense when experiences are shared because a subsequent exchange deepens and reflects on the experience. In an increasingly digitalised world, analogue encounters are becoming increasingly important - also as a counterpoint to the often fragmented everyday communication.

Forecast

The need for interpersonal closeness and shared leisure activities will remain a key factor for subjective well-being in the future. Social activities are increasingly seen as a conscious investment in relationship quality, psychological stability and enjoyment of life.

Especially in a more individualised, often anonymous society, close bonds gain emotional relevance - they become stabilising anchors in everyday life. Shared rituals with partners, friends or family provide orientation and strengthen the feeling of reliability.

Leisure activities that promote community have particular potential for the future: cultural events with a participatory character, community-based leisure formats or intergenerational projects. Voluntary work and club life could also experience a new upswing as a result of this change in values - as places of meaningful togetherness.

This benefits not only the individual - but also the social climate. After all, strong social cohesion starts on a small scale and makes a decisive contribution to understanding, respect and cooperation on a larger scale.