New research has revealed the life milestones, both happy and sad, that British adults remember most. Getting married claimed the top spot (49%), followed by the birth of a first child (47%) and losing a loved one (45%).
Family Memories Dominate the List
Other cherished memories to make the top 40 include getting a pet (21%), seeing your favourite artist live (20%) and achieving financial independence (20%). Buying your first car, landing a dream job and graduating from university also featured prominently.
Overall, the poll of 2,000 adults found 57% of the most unforgettable moments relate to family, with only 4% relating to work and careers.
Preserving and Reliving Special Moments
As many as nine in 10 believe it's vital to preserve these memories. The research also revealed that 97% would love to relive their most unforgettable moments, with just under a quarter (24%) wanting to do so at least once a week.
It turns out that 68% believe reflecting on their happiest moments helps them through difficult days. Furthermore, 52% like to preserve memories by looking through photo albums, and 37% do this by scrolling through pictures on their camera roll.
Three in 10 save important letters and cards, and 19% make memory boxes full of keepsakes like notes and train tickets.
Looking Forward to New Milestones
More than half (56%) are excited to find out what their next milestone will be, with Gen Z being the most excitable with 85% claiming this to be true, according to the stats by OnePoll.
Pip Deacon from John Lewis Money, which commissioned the research, said: "Whether moving into your first home, experiencing the chaos of a new puppy, or going on the holiday of a lifetime - it's the memorable milestones that make life special."
Deacon added: "It's heartwarming to see how cherished people's memories are, and how impactful they can be on a bad day. And with people already looking forward to making new memories, there will be plenty of exciting times ahead."
The Top 40 Most Unforgettable Moments
The full list includes: getting married; the birth of your first child; losing a loved one; having children; buying a first home; passing your driving test; falling in love; meeting a life partner; losing a pet; getting engaged; going on your dream holiday; starting a first job; a once-in-a-lifetime trip; purchasing your first car; your child's first day at school; leaving home for the first time; hearing your baby's heartbeat for the first time; finding out you were pregnant; leaving school; retiring; graduating; bringing a pet home for the first time; seeing your favourite artist live; achieving a long-term goal; achieving financial independence; landing your dream job; moving to a new country; getting into university; your child's first performance at school; watching your favourite band for the first time; finding out your baby's gender; winning a competition; getting a promotion; your child's last day at school; purchasing your dream car; winning an award; watching your favourite team score a winning goal; meeting your favourite celebrity; quitting a job; and starting a business.
