New research has revealed the signs people see as proof they've truly “grown up” — and it's less about hitting major milestones than being on top of everyday tasks. Saving money tops the list, followed by enjoying your own company, being able to admit when you're wrong, and saying no without feeling guilty, according to the research by British Gas.
Everyday habits that signal maturity
Knowing when bin day is, making the bed every day, and having a strong friendship group also feature. The research shows that nearly 39% now see eco-friendly home features such as solar panels, heat pumps, and rainwater collection systems as a sign someone has their life together. For nearly a third, having solar panels and a smart meter is one of the clearest signs.
Almost half say having an energy-efficient home that costs less to run would make them feel more in control, while 39% want greater visibility over their energy usage.
Energy control and self-sufficiency
Joe McHugh, Electrician at British Gas, said: “People are rethinking what it means to have their life together, and increasingly it comes down to control - control over your home, your bills and your future. Investing in technologies like solar panels has become one of the clearest signs of that, because it turns your home from something that costs you money every month into something that's actively working for you.”
With costs soaring after a string of economic shocks, generating your own energy has increasing appeal. Around 54% said it would make them feel more in control of their bills, and nearly four in ten said they love the idea of being more self-sufficient.
Top signs that you're in control of your life
- You make regular savings - 52%
- You enjoy your own company - 43%
- You can admit when you’re wrong - 42%
- You say no without feeling guilty - 37%
- You’re not paying for subscriptions you don’t use - 36%
- You know when bin day is - 35%
- You make your bed every day - 34%
- You have a strong friendship group - 33%
- You have solar panels and a smart meter – 32%
- You work the hours you choose - 30%
- You recycle everything - 30%
- You put clothes away, rather than throw them on a chair - 30%
- Your kitchen cupboards are in order - 28%
- You drink two litres of water a day - 28%
- You know how much energy your home uses each month - 27%
- You have spare batteries and know where they are - 25%
- You unpack immediately after a trip - 23%
- You book the dentist before anything hurts - 22%
- You always wash up after a dinner party - 21%
- Your car doesn’t have empty wrappers on the floor - 21%
