Most of us think we’re better people than 5 years ago – That’s pure human resilience

At any other time, this insight might elicit a shrug, perhaps slight interest, or maybe just a simple acknowledgment. But these last five years have seen us endure a global pandemic, political unrest, economic instability… the list goes on. No one would fault us if we were to admit that we felt just a little bit worse for wear, skeptical, or just plain fed up.

Momentum’s latest We Know global research focused on the topic of experiences, and we anticipated some of the results. As researchers, insights gatherers, strategists, and more, we pose certain questions to consumers that we confidently feel we already know the answer to before they’re asked. We often expect our hypotheses to stand up but we are pleasantly surprised when we are wrong.

But, 79% of people globally saying they feel they are a better person than they were five years ago? This particular stat is an insight filled with hope and promise for the future. It represents human resiliency, the desire to fight back, and take control of our lives.

Acceptance, connection, discovery

Our research revealed the importance of three traits for the people we interviewed: acceptance, connection, and discovery.

Self-reflection, inward focus, and shaking off the stigma that the words “mental wellness” once held have been transformative in many people’s lives. People are taking the time to evaluate the good and bad for both their physical and mental health, and pushing back ever-so-slightly on areas that may have a negative impact.

Our research found that 70% of us have admitted to slowing down our purchases of the latest technology and taking a leisurely, less eager approach to tech adoption.​ As we take the steps to break the mold and redefine wellness, over half (54%) have also found that increased awareness and acceptance of mental health has made the greatest positive impact in their life.

We’ve also seen a greater need among consumers to create connections with others. This is an ingredient they consider the most important habit or activity for a happy and healthy life​ (66%). Additionally, respondents said they are making efforts to seek out new spaces to make meaningful relationships, with over seven in 10 having found new places and interests to foster connection.

Some 80% of respondents said they are spending more time with people that they can connect with on a passion or interest level. And, if the right community for what they want doesn’t currently exist? They feel empowered to go ahead and create it for themselves and other like-minded people. Consumers are ready to go out into the world and take chances, with close to four in 10 saying they stepped out of their comfort zones by taking on a new challenge over the past year.

Meaningful moments

Reflecting on the insights the study uncovered, those ideas of acceptance, connection, and discovery, come together to create a focus on the importance of meaningful connections. Human beings make efforts to take charge and regain what they feel they may have lost. To do this, they are embracing self-reflection, mental wellness, and connections with purpose. Connections are vital in our lives and define our experiences – and shared experiences are particularly impactful, no matter if they are with friends, family, or strangers.

Connections not only define our experiences but also help us to overcome difficult times and adapt to change. As we are constantly reinventing ourselves, we look to balance the change around us with the change within. How many more of us will be an ever-better version of ourselves in the next five years? And how will we connect in the future? I look forward to finding out.