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Millions of Brits admit they hate change \u2013 but many recognise this could be holding them back, according to a study. The poll of 2,000 adults found half wish they were more spontaneous, as 41 percent acknowledged they are \u201ca creature of habit\u201d.<\/p>\n
However, 32 percent fear they’ve missed out on new experiences and opportunities because of their reluctance to break the mould.<\/p>\n
It emerged that 37 percent have had the same haircut \u201cfor as long as they can remember\u201d, while 30 percent won\u2019t deviate from a certain style of clothing.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, 23 percent have been hanging out with the same group of people for years, and 23 percent stick to the TV shows they know and love \u2013 while over a fifth (22 percent) will also always order the same drink at the pub.<\/p>\n
The study was commissioned by TePe, as part of a campaign raising awareness about the importance of good oral health.<\/p>\n
It found 26 percent of adults lack the confidence to try new things \u2013 and 14 percent worry their attitude to change will negatively affect their health.<\/p>\n
And while 61 percent feel like they have at times been \u201cstuck in a rut\u201d, 34 percent recognise making small changes is a great way to shake themselves out of it.<\/p>\n
In addition, 27 percent have even pushed themselves to try something new in order break the mould.<\/p>\n
The oral care brand has teamed up with behavioural psychologist, Jo Hemmings, to highlight how small changes to daily habits can improve health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n
She said: \u201cPeople are reluctant to change for a number of reasons \u2013 including fear of the unknown or a loss of control, attachment to familiar habits, previous negative experiences, or confirmation bias, where they are simply resistant to change.<\/p>\n
\u201cOr, they may be risk-averse people by nature. However, embracing change gives us opportunities to become more adaptable and resilient, to achieve personal growth and development, and prevent us getting stuck in unhealthy habits.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt also can act as a preventative measure for health issues that may occur further down the line.<\/p>\n
\u201cTaking on new experiences can improve our perspective on life, help us be more empathetic, and keep us motivated.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we open our minds, and are at least willing to consider small changes, the net effect can be an overall improved level of wellbeing.\u201d<\/p>\n
The study also identified a lack of awareness when it comes to oral health and possible implications of not looking after it.<\/p>\n
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While 80 percent feel their oral health routine is effective, 75 percent fail to floss, and 67 percent of those polled don\u2019t clean between their teeth daily.<\/p>\n
Over time, plaque build-up between the teeth can lead to cavities, gum disease, and possibly even tooth loss, which can also have negative consequences for general health and wellbeing \u2013 with studies linking poor dental hygiene to conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.<\/p>\n
Amanda Sheehan, dental therapist for TePe, said: \u201cIt is understandable that many people are apprehensive about changing their daily habits \u2013 including their oral care routine.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, oral health is intrinsically linked to our overall wellbeing, and it is clear from the survey findings that greater education about how to look after our teeth and gums is needed.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is not enough for adults to simply clean their teeth with a traditional toothbrush.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis, in fact, only cleans up to 60 percent of the tooth\u2019s surface, leaving behind a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria to develop between the teeth.<\/p>\n
\u201cBecause most dental disease starts between the teeth where food and plaque accumulate, along with regular dental appointments and brushing teeth twice a day, it\u2019s important to clean between the teeth daily, using floss or interdental brushes.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn turn, incorporating interdental cleaning as part of your routine will surely then become a \u201chabit\u201d that becomes hard to break.\u201d<\/p>\n