Brits forced to put work first, neglecting family life
Millions of Brits risk relationship strain or a lengthy stretch in the doghouse, as half (51%) of adults admit not prioritising family, friends or partner in their everyday routine as they would ideally like to.
Research from Scottish Widows reveals that pressures of work in particular are forcing 10 million Brits (21%) to sacrifice time they know they should be spending with their children or grandchildren, and that this situation has not improved since last year.
In addition, the research - published today as part of Scottish Widows' annual Priorities of Life Index - finds 1.5 million more people than a year ago (19 million, or 39% of the adult population) worry about neglecting their partners. Lack of ‘free time' and focusing on ‘making ends meet' are two of the main reasons given for pushing their relationship to the side. Britain's 30-somethings are the age group most likely to prioritise spending any spare time with their kids over their partner, whilst 40-somethings are focusing most on dealing with financial pressures.
Looking beyond their immediate family, one in three (34%) people say they are not finding enough time for their friends, with 30-somethings feeling they're giving the lowest current priority to their mates. Meanwhile, one in four adults (24%) own up to not prioritising their broader family as much as they would like.
Iain McGowan, savings expert for Scottish Widows says: "Families are continuing to feel the pressure and unfortunately for many, it's the relationships with their kids and partners that are taking most of the strain. It's understandable parents need to work hard to provide for their children's futures and ensure their jobs remains secure, particularly in such challenging economic conditions. But we urge people to take a step back from time to time to ensure that their long-term life priorities do not stray too far out of balance."
5 million turn stress into relief
The continuing financial slump has prompted more than two thirds of Brits (69%) to take stock of what matters to them most. As a result, five million people have adopted a better work-life balance, allowing them to divide their time more equally between their family and career.
Britain's 30-somethings have proved keenest to get on top of their working hours (21% vs. 11% on average), while more men than women have been moved to achieve a better work-life balance in the last 12 months (13% vs. 9%).
Iain McGowan continued: "The recession may be technically over, but its after-effects are still being felt across the country. It's great to see so many people using this difficult period to take positive steps, though many more clearly remain frustrated with their current situation. Getting on top of your money situation is crucial to giving you more options, from being able to balance your work and home life, to being sure of a healthy income in retirement
"For those that are able to put money aside for their retirement, the golden rule is to save 12% of their income. Getting your finances in shape will give you peace of mind knowing that you have one less thing to worry about."