A new study has revealed that only 13% of Brits feel fully ready for the day ahead, with 88% admitting they have days when they can barely function. The research, commissioned by cold water immersion company Brass Monkey, suggests most people are getting through the day in a fog of tiredness, poor concentration and low motivation.
According to the poll, 21% of respondents said they often have days when they can barely function. One in five (20%) said they wish they could focus better and feel more prepared for daily demands, yet only 34% believe productivity is something you can actually learn.
Experts say confidence comes from action
Experts insist that people can train themselves to perform better by forcing themselves out of their comfort zone. Dr. Pippa Grange, a performance psychologist and author of Fear Less and Life. Reclaimed., explained: "Calming down and learning to cope are two different things."
"Confidence, and with it readiness, comes from taking action again and again, and finding out you can handle it," she said. "Most of us assume confidence comes first and action follows. It's usually the other way round. Confidence is built by doing things that stretch us, especially when they feel uncomfortable at the time."
Peak times and coping methods
The poll also pinpointed when Brits feel at their sharpest, with the average person peaking at 11:39am. The classic afternoon slump happens at 3:01pm, with focus dropping after lunch. On average, people said they feel low on energy three days a week and reckon they are working below their best for around eight days a month.
When stress hits, Brits said they cope by watching TV (28%), exercising (27%) and comfort eating (23%). However, more than half (53%) admitted they have never actively tried to improve their focus, resilience or productivity, and only 57% said they challenge themselves at least once a month.
Stepping outside the comfort zone
When they do step outside their comfort zone, most said they feel nervous (52%), anxious (50%) or overwhelmed (27%). But after getting through something difficult, they reported feeling relief (46%), pride (33%) and a boost in confidence (29%).
The OnePoll survey of 2,000 adults also asked what helps people feel ready for the day. Good sleep came top (43%), followed by regular exercise (40%) and setting goals (25%). Some also said breathwork (10%), cold-water baths (6%) and sauna or heat sessions (4%) make a difference.
Brass Monkey's Dan Bosomworth added: "Many people are spending days running below their full potential, held back by tiredness, low motivation and a lack of focus. Our research shows that when people push themselves beyond their comfort zone, the rewards often outweigh the discomfort, with many coming away feeling more confident and proud. Building readiness does not always require a major life change or one single fix; sometimes it starts with embracing a combination of small, manageable challenges that build."
