Millions of Britons admit they hate change, but according to a poll, many recognize it could hold them back.
The survey of 2,000 adults found that half wished they were more spontaneous and 41 percent acknowledged they are “a creature of habit.”
However, 32 percent fear they have missed out on new experiences and opportunities because of their reluctance to break with the established order.
It turned out that 37 percent have had haircuts ‘as long as they can remember’ and 30 percent don’t want to deviate from a certain clothing style.
While 23 percent have been hanging out with the same group of people for years and 23 percent stick with the TV shows they know and love.
While 23 percent have been hanging out with the same group of people for years and 23 percent stick with the TV shows they know and love (file photo)
More than a fifth (22 percent) also always order the same drink in the pub.
The research was commissioned by TePe as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of good oral health.
It found that 26 percent of adults don’t have the confidence to try new things, while 14 percent worry that their attitude to change will negatively impact their health.
While 61 percent feel they’ve been “stuck in a rut” at times, 34 percent recognize that making small changes is a great way to shake themselves out of it.
In addition, 27 percent have even pushed themselves to try something new to break the established order.
The oral care brand has teamed up with behavioral psychologist Jo Hemmings to highlight how small changes in daily habits can improve health and well-being.
She said: ‘People are reluctant to change for a number of reasons, including fear of the unknown or loss of control; attachment to familiar habits; previous negative experiences or confirmation bias, where they simply resist change.
‘Or they are risk-averse people by nature.
‘However, embracing change gives us opportunities to become more flexible and resilient, realize personal growth and development and avoid getting stuck in unhealthy habits.
“It can also serve as a preventative measure for health problems that may arise later on.”
“Gaining new experiences can improve our perspective on life, help us be more empathetic, and keep us motivated.
“If we open our minds and are at least willing to consider small changes, the net effect can be an overall improved level of well-being.”
The poll also pointed to a lack of awareness when it comes to oral health and potential implications of not taking care of it.
While 80 percent feel their oral health routine is effective, 75 percent don’t floss.
And 67 percent of those surveyed do not clean between their teeth on a daily basis.
It found that 37 percent have had their hair cut “as long as they can remember” and 30 percent don’t want to deviate from a certain clothing style
Over time, plaque buildup between teeth can lead to cavities, gum disease, and possibly even tooth loss, which can also have negative impacts on overall health and well-being. Studies link poor oral hygiene to conditions such as diabetes, arthritis , and heart disease.
Amanda Sheehan, dental therapist for TePe, said: ‘It is understandable that many people are apprehensive about changing their daily habits – including their oral care routine.
“However, oral health is intrinsically linked to our overall well-being and the research findings clearly show that more education is needed about how to care for our teeth and gums.
‘It is not enough for adults to just brush their teeth with a traditional toothbrush.
“This actually only cleans up to 60 percent of the tooth surface, leaving a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria to develop between the teeth.
“Because most dental disease starts between the teeth, where food and plaque build up, along with regular dental appointments and brushing your teeth twice a day, it’s important to clean between the teeth daily with dental floss or interdental brushes.
“In turn, incorporating interdental cleaning as part of your routine is sure to become a ‘habit’ that is hard to break.”