AI Steps In as Third of Brits Struggle with Adulting Tasks Like Cooking
AI Helps Brits with Adulting Tasks Like Cooking and DIY

AI Steps In as Third of Brits Struggle with Adulting Tasks Like Cooking

A recent poll has uncovered that nearly a third of British adults require help with basic adulting tasks, such as cooking, DIY, and small talk, with many turning to artificial intelligence for support. The study, commissioned by the AI-powered search engine Heywa, surveyed 2,000 adults and found widespread difficulties in managing grown-up responsibilities.

Widespread Struggles Across Generations

The research indicates that 52% of Gen Z individuals struggle with meeting the demands of being a responsible adult, but they are not alone. 47% of Millennials, a quarter of Gen X, and even 10% of Boomers also report needing assistance. Common challenges include meal planning, keeping plants alive, understanding politics, car maintenance, managing finances, and simply getting out of bed on time.

To cope, three in ten adults have attempted to learn more about these aspects, seeking advice from the internet (45%), friends and family (61%), and books (23%). However, a significant shift is occurring with the adoption of AI tools.

AI as a Lifeline for Adulting

The study reveals that 11% of participants use AI for adulting tasks on a daily basis, with 49% having used it at least once. People find AI most useful for turning complex instructions into step-by-step guides (32%), explaining jargon in plain English (27%), and creating visual explainers for DIY or cooking (25%).

Milena Nikolic, founder of Heywa, commented on the findings: "From cooking to DIY to managing finances, a lot of us still feel like we're learning on the job. People have all sorts of ways they use AI, and we aim to make things simpler, clearer, and more accessible."

Changing Search Habits and Automation Desires

In terms of online behavior, ChatGPT is now the third most common platform for searching (24%), trailing behind YouTube (32%) and Google (65%). Nearly half of those polled say their search style reflects their personality, with over a third preferring short exchanges for quick information and 16% opting for a more courteous approach.

Consumer psychologist Kate Nightingale, who partnered with Heywa, added: "Everyone has their own unique 'Online Language,' and people don't just want answers—they want guidance that fits their personality and lifestyle."

Additionally, many believe certain daily tasks should be automated, such as reading gas or electricity meters (21%), finding the best rates for purchases (18%), and managing finances (17%).

Top 20 Adult Tasks Brits Need Help With

  1. Doing basic DIY
  2. Car maintenance
  3. Managing finances and budgeting
  4. Keeping the house clean and tidy
  5. Building flat-pack furniture
  6. Understanding mortgages and mortgage rates
  7. Understanding insurance
  8. Negotiating bills or contracts
  9. Handling unexpected expenses
  10. Cooking from scratch / cooking balanced meals
  11. Understanding politics
  12. Understanding credit scores
  13. Managing time effectively
  14. Doing laundry / ironing clothes correctly
  15. Saving for emergencies
  16. Planning weekly meals
  17. Filing important paperwork
  18. Changing bed sheets regularly
  19. Reading a gas or electricity meter
  20. Keeping plants alive

This comprehensive list highlights the diverse areas where British adults are seeking support, underscoring the growing reliance on technology and AI to navigate everyday life.