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Gen Z is more likely than any other generation to invest saved money on their pet than use it to go on vacation. That’s according to a new survey of 2,000 pet owners split evenly by generation, that showed only 15% of Gen Z would rather buy an expensive concert ticket or go on vacation (30%) with saved cash, whereas 42% would prefer to save the money for unexpected pet expenses. Gen X echoed the same sentiment — 30% would rather stash their money away for their pet than go on a trip (20%) or purchase a concert ticket (27%). In fact, 41% of Gen Zers are more likely to spend $100 on their pet than on their partner. And, Gen Zers admit they get more joy from seeing their pet happy than their partner (36% vs 21%), more than any other generation. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Synchrony, the survey also found that half of baby boomers (54%) spend less than $150 each month on basic pet expenses. This brings pet owners’ yearly spending to about $3,200. Though pet parents plan for routine monthly expenses like food, training or vet visits, they also purchase non-necessity items like clothing, toys or even tech. In the last year, respondents spent money on at least one unnecessary item, like “a machine that throws the ball for my dog,” “a super nice bed pillow, it was plush and it had fake diamonds,” and “a very large scratching post structure.” One respondent even “bought [their] dog, Princess, a spa trip for a week.” Respondents would even give up eating out for a whole year (45%) if it meant free pet expenses for the same amount of time. They’d also forego social media (42%) and streaming services (36%). Pet parents would go a step further if it meant their pet could live an extra year. They’d give up dating or romance for a year (48%), work for their worst boss again (38%) and give up their paycheck (36%). About half (49%) of millennials would even brave the winter weather and sleep outside in the snow to give their pet an extra year of life. “We’ve found that the total cost of care for a dog over a lifetime ranges from $20,000-$55,000. The estimated cost of care for a cat over a lifetime was between $15,000 - $46,000.” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager, Pet, Synchrony. “Many Gen Z pet parents are first-timers and the costs to care for a pet can be surprising. For that reason, we want pet parents to have a deeper understanding of what to expect financially, and knowledge of the flexible payment solutions that are available to help them manage the costs of care throughout their pet’s lifetime.” Overall, 53% of respondents believe their pet is more a part of their family than their childhood pet was. On top of that, 90% of respondents agree that their pets are like their children. “Millions of Americans choose to share life with a pet, and we want to help them balance the care their pet needs with what they can afford,” said Wainberg. “Whether you choose to splurge on pet gifts or not, it’s important to plan ahead for unexpected costs so you can spoil your pet AND cover the cost of their mental and physical wellbeing.” WHAT WOULD PET OWNERS GIVE UP FOR A YEAR OF FREE PET EXPENSES? ● Eating out - 45% ● Social media - 42% ● Streaming services - 36% ● Bed - 26% ● Washer/dryer/dishwasher - 26% ● Indoor plumbing - 25% ● Phone - 23% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American pet owners split evenly by generation (500 Gen Z, 500 millennials, 500 Gen X and 500 baby boomers) was commissioned by Synchrony between Feb. 17 and Feb. 22, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Nearly a third (31%) of people would take a pay cut for a year to be allergy-free, new research suggests. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults with allergies discovered other favorite things people would be willing to part with for a year to be rid of their allergy symptoms, including cake (39%), chocolate (39%), video games (39%), coffee (38%) and social media (36%). And about two in five (39%) people dread the spring season because of their allergies. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Flonase, results also found people consider allergy symptoms to be the most frustrating part of springtime (54%), compared to spring cleaning (44%), mosquitoes (41%), and even filing taxes (38%). In fact, 58% reported their springtime plans are “always” or “often” interrupted by allergy symptoms. Activities people avoid doing when experiencing allergies? Outdoor exercise (39%), lawn mowing or yard work (39%), swimming (38%) and playing outdoor sports (37%). People have even had to cancel plans completely because allergies got in the way, such as get-togethers with friends (37%), birthday parties (36%), road trips (36%) and weddings (33%) and even job interviews (33%). In fact, the average person postpones or cancels 4.5 events a season due to seasonal allergies. Additionally, allergies can stand in the way of blossoming spring romances, as 39% of respondents reported going on fewer dates during this season. The most frustrating symptom to deal with? A runny nose (27%), more so than a sore throat (19%), rashes (19%) or fatigue (18%). Forty-one percent admit they feel more self-conscious when their allergies begin. That may be why 40% excuse themselves from a social situation after just two allergy symptoms occur. “Our research shows that allergies can have an emotional toll on people’s lives,” said Tish Tillie, brand director for Flonase. “When asked to measure their happiness levels before, during and after experiencing allergy symptoms, 31% reported being ‘very happy’ before their allergies kicked in, but this dipped to just 18% when their allergy symptoms hit.” To relieve their symptoms, over half (52%) have tried allergy medication, and more than two in five have also tried honey, herbal remedies, and essential oils (41% each). Some have even attempted DIY solutions such as “inhaling garlic,” a “neti pot,” an “essential oil diffuser” and “using a homemade nasal rinse.” “Allergy symptoms, including their severity, vary from person to person, so its important to talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes and treatments that may be right for you,” Tillie added. “Additionally, journaling, mediating, and scheduling time for self-care are all good examples of how to cope with the emotional impact of suffering from allergies. THINGS PEOPLE WOULD GIVE UP FOR A YEAR TO BE ALLERGY-FREE ● Cake - 39% ● Chocolate - 39% ● Video games - 39% ● Coffee - 38% ● Pizza - 37% ● Social media - 36% ● Streaming service - 35% ● A portion of my salary - 31% ● Smartphone - 31% PEOPLE’S SPRINGTIME FRUSTRATIONS ● Allergy symptoms - 54% ● Spring cleaning - 44% ● Unpredictable weather - 44% ● Lawn care/maintenance - 42% ● Mosquitos - 41% ● Filing taxes/tax returns - 38% ● Daylight savings time - 37% ● Finding seasonal clothing - 37% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans with allergies was commissioned by Flonase between Feb. 24 and March 1, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

One in four Americans feel “underqualified” for jobs today, according to a new survey. A new poll of 2,000 Americans actively job seeking found 39% fear potential employers would also deem them underqualified for roles they’re applying for. Eighteen percent fear the opposite — that they’ll be seen as too overqualified. Yet 39% still feel optimistic about their job prospects in the next year and 56% believe prioritizing employee education might be the answer to their troubles.

The average American feels insecure five times a day, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 people looked at their confidence levels and found that for many, confidence can be tough to come by. Results showed that people find their nerves shaken the most when confronted with difficult situations like speaking in front of a large group (40%), not being properly prepared (34%) or starting a new job (28%).

New research has found that four in 10 parents report having only three or fewer family dinners per week, leaving 42% feeling “worried.” That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 US parents, which revealed 56% believe that having a shared meal together is one of the best ways to bond with their family, but 54% of which report not getting enough quality time together. However, when families do sit down for at-home dinners, meals are full of laughter (20%) and good conversation (34%). Commissioned by The Little Potato Company and conducted by OnePoll, the study found many parents said it would be easier to have more home-cooked family dinners if they meal planned ahead for the week (20%), had quicker, healthier meals to prepare (18%) and if everyone’s schedules coincided (18%). Parents said that the important factors of a home-cooked dinner are: having a meal using a passed down or favorite family recipe (47%), having good conversations at the table (38%) and having all family members in the household present (34%). Parents also shared what they want their kids to remember about family dinners — being able to share family time and connection (52%), knowing the importance of spending time with family (41%), the home-cooked meals themselves (40%) and wanting to learn how to cook (35%). It differed by generation — millennial and Gen X parents want their kids to know the importance of spending time with family (43% and 34%, respectively), while 43% of Gen Z parents want their kids to have a love of food. To encourage conversation with their kids, 47% of parents said they have a tradition at the dinner table, including 26% who like to share what they are grateful for and 17% who use a game or discussion starter to facilitate conversation during family dinners. Parents reported spending more time in the kitchen, taking an average of nearly 45 minutes preparing a full meal at home, but only spending an average of about 36 minutes eating together with family. “With afterschool activities and busy schedules, making family dinners happen at home on a regular basis isn’t easy,” said Angela Santiago, CEO and co-founder of The Little Potato Company. “That’s why having options of nutritious whole foods that are pre-washed and quick to make – like The Little Potato Co.’s little potatoes – are important so families can spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating memories.” Sometimes kids need a little encouragement to try different foods — 61% incentive their kids to eat certain foods on their dinner plates with later bedtimes (45%), more screen time after dinner (43%), dessert (42%), a favorite hobby (41%), a second helping of a food they do like (38%) and even cash (27%). Close to three-quarters (73%) said eating meals together are more enjoyable if they’re also made together, and 18% want their kids to see dinner time as a fun part of the day. Nearly three in five (59%) let their kids cook with them in the kitchen, so long as they’re at least 12 years old. “Sharing a home-cooked meal with your family helps nurture a love for food and provides an opportunity for invaluable quality family time and conversation,” continued Santiago, a mother of four herself. “That’s why we’re passionate about making it easier for families to spend more time together around the table and feel good about eating whole foods, packed with nutrients.” 7 IMPORTANT FACTORS FOR FAMILY DINNERS A meal using a passed down or favorite family recipe - 47% Good conversation - 38% All family members in the household present - 34% Everyone can agree on what to eat - 29% Everyone can eat without complaining - 28% Everyone asks for seconds - 21% It is full of laughter - 20%        Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American parents of school-aged children was commissioned by The Little Potato Company between February 1 and February 6, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Almost half of American sports fans have traveled out of the country to see a game, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 self-identified “sports fanatics” looked at the extremes that respondents are willing to go to, in order to see their favorite competitions live and in person. While 45% have left the country to see a game, results also found that 35% have specifically planned a vacation based on when and where their favorite team is playing.

One in six Americans put off cleaning for at least a month, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans who own appliances looked at their cleaning habits and found that while half claimed the longest they’ve gone without ever cleaning their home is just one month (52%), one in 10 admitted they’ve gone more than six months without cleaning. Most of those surveyed said they were able to nail down a cleaning routine within the first six months of moving into their home (68%), although 16% admit they still don’t have a routine at all.

Nearly half of Americans are traveling this spring (47%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans looked at how people are keeping up with changing seasons and found that parents will especially be on the move (51%), and a similar percentage said springtime requires them to have more energy to keep up with their kids (49%). One in eight respondents said they have difficulty staying energized while traveling, and 46% said they’re more likely to feel energized when traveling in the morning than at night. One in six claim that they’ve traveled for at least 10 hours without stopping to eat. Conducted by OnePoll for Dutch Bros, the survey also found that 44% of Americans need an energizing pick-me-up to help gear themselves up for warmer weather. A majority of respondents said spring is the season of change (73%), leaving people feeling fresh (43%) and motivated (35%). Seven in 10 said they want to be more spontaneous in the spring after being cooped up in their house during the winter (71%). The survey split respondents by what drink they prefer to help get them through their day, with those who prefer coffee (73%) and energy drinks in the morning (79%) being some of the most likely to want a spontaneous change in the spring. Half of respondents even said they try to change at least one thing in their life with the start of each new season. This year, some of these changes include refreshing their goals (32%), cleaning up their diet (29%) and exploring new hobbies (27%). Being more social is also a particular area of focus for parents (29%). "Spring is such a motivating time of the year. We're leaving the cold winter days behind us and looking ahead to longer days with warmer weather," said Charles Swindler, senior vice president of brand at Dutch Bros. "There's no better time to try new things, get into new habits or find new ways to give you a little extra energy during the seasonal transition!" All of this change may leave people feeling tired, with 44% saying they reach their first slump of the day in the afternoon (between 12-5 p.m.). Surprisingly, one in eight hit their first slump earlier in the morning. Those who drink energy drinks in the morning are most likely to experience this (14%). It doesn’t help that the average American skips breakfast three days a week. However, 43% make a point to always drink something during those mornings. The average person claims their body can run four hours on just a morning beverage. Survey-takers who get their energy from coffee and smoothie/juices are the most likely to be able to last a full workday with just a morning drink. When it comes to de-stressing, you don't need to go all out on an expensive trip to unwind. Respondents are more likely to say that cheaper, smaller pleasures like a good cup of coffee or taking a brisk walk has a better impact on their mood than larger pleasures like splurging on something expensive or going on vacation (30% vs. 20%). And if you want to uplift your mood but don’t want to break the bank, results showed that being outdoors in the fresh air is enough of a spring pick-me-up for 43% of respondents. Others feel like they need a vacation (25%) or caffeine from coffee or tea to help restore some energy (18%). "Whether you have spring break coming up and a laundry list of things to get done or you're just feeling the weight of the day, don't underestimate what a good pick-me-up during the craziness can have,” said Swindler. Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Dutch Bros between March 2 and March 8, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

A majority of Americans believe climate change will be catastrophic within their lifetime (68%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults looked at their sentiments around environmentalism and found that Gen Z (84%) and millennials (75%) are especially likely to feel like climate change will affect their future. However, just over a third of all respondents feel informed about environmentalism (35%). And one in nine admit they’re not confident in understanding how waste affects the environment, but most would be interested in learning more (77%). The survey also looked at people’s thoughts when it comes to doing their part and found that more people think that large corporations have a greater responsibility to society (30%) by donating or standing up for important causes — above individuals and the government. Millennials especially agree with this (34%), while Gen Z strongly believes that individuals have the most responsibility (49%). One in eight people don’t think their ethical choices such as recycling, attending protests or signing petitions have an impact on the world, with Gen X (13%) and baby boomer (20%) respondents primarily believing this. Conducted by OnePoll for Chinet, the survey found that many agree that it can be hard to be informed, with 72% saying that there’s more social pressure than information about what they can do to make lasting change. Still, seven in 10 feel they’ve become more ethically responsible as they’ve gotten older (71%). The average person reflects on how they could have made different decisions in the past — such as not being as wasteful, being more attentive, etc. — three times a week. Over the past year, Americans have been taking small steps in their everyday lives to do the right thing such as starting conversations with their loved ones about their decisions or perspectives (39%), donating clothing (37%) and purchasing sustainable products (36%). Other regular habits include avoiding littering (51%), recycling (49%) and using compostable eating materials (cutlery, plates, cups, etc.) (46%). Even with their best foot forward, three in four agree that no one can make the “right” decision all of the time (76%) and a similar percentage believe people should be forgiving of others making what they perceive as ethically-questionable decisions (78%). The average person admitted to doing something they know is “wrong” three times a week, like throwing away glass instead of recycling it or throwing trash on the ground. Interestingly, baby boomers would be the hardest on themselves if they were to falter from their goals (15%). “We believe everyone should have a place around the table, be welcomed with open arms and a full cup,” says Melissa Rakos, Chinet® brand manager. “As part of our 2030 strategy, we are committed to innovating our products to be recyclable, compostable or reusable in order to help consumers enjoy gatherings knowing they are taking steps toward being more sustainable.” When asked about the businesses and brands they want to support, a majority of Americans said it’s important that they share the same values (73%). Gen Z (77%) and millennials (82%) were especially likely to say this is the case, while respondents from Gen X (19%) and baby boomers (33%) said it was unimportant. Nearly half of all respondents have stopped supporting or using a brand because their values didn’t align with something they’ve said or done (48%), with the average person leaving five brands behind. “Sometimes hosts need an easy solution. As consumers are committed to taking small steps in their everyday lives to do the right thing, they should have options that support these initiatives,” said Rakos. “Hosts and guests alike shouldn’t worry about sacrificing convenience for sustainability. Utilizing products that are made from recycled material and ridding unrecyclable foam items completely is an easy way for people to get started with making these changes in their everyday lives.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Chinet between Feb. 21 and Feb. 24, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

How obsessed are Americans with their pets? Enough that almost half are thinking about getting a tattoo of their pet, according to a new survey. The study of 2,000 cat and dog owners found that 25% would consider getting a tattoo of their current pet, while 25% are already planning to get one. Another 16% of those polled already have a pet-themed tattoo on their body.

A new survey has found hosting a dinner at home is more stressful than catching a plane right before the gate closes, dropping your phone and even trying to pass the SATs. A poll of 2,000 US adults who celebrate Easter found that 78% believe hosting a large dinner in their homes is stressful and 59% find the holiday itself to be stressful. Commissioned by The Honey Baked Ham Company and conducted by OnePoll, the study revealed the average person has had five large dinners hosted at home in the past 12 months. Those large dinners were defined by respondents as being any meal that celebrates a big life event (22%), having a lot of family over (21%) and having guests over in general (19%). When planning a large dinner, hosts worry the most about how much food they need to prepare (41%), how clean their home is (40%), figuring out how much time they need to prepare or cook food (40%) and if guests will like the food (39%). For the average host, planning dinners starts seven days in advance, and food shopping starts six days in advance. And shopping for Easter dinners or lunch stresses out 60% of respondents. Nearly half of those surveyed (48%) are planning to host people at their homes this Easter weekend, with an average of five guests at their gatherings. And despite 73% who believe the holiday should be as “stress-free” as possible, it’s a struggle for 74% who claim it is challenging to find what they need when food shopping. Aside from shopping, Easter hosts are also banking on additional challenges during meal preparation: welcoming guests while prepping food (19%), time management (17%) and cleaning the kitchen (15%). “Spending time with your family and friends for a holiday shouldn’t be stressful,” said Tripp McLaughlin, Chief Marketing Officer at The Honey Baked Ham Company. “Sharing a meal with loved ones should be a joyful time. Our advice for Easter hosts is this: consider options like pre-cooked and sliced proteins or delicious easy-to-serve sides that help ease the stress of planning and prepping.” The survey also revealed 59% of respondents find grocery shopping, in general, to be stressful. For 80%, it’s even more stressful if they have to shop in advance of hosting. Forty-two percent were found to spend more time grocery shopping today than they did five years ago. Each week, the average person spends 41 minutes shopping for groceries from a single store. When hosting, people tend to spend even more time in the store, averaging 51 minutes per trip. And for 67%, one store isn’t enough — they “always” or “often” have to shop at multiple stores in order to find their weekly groceries. The average shopper has to hit three different stores to get what they need. “Whether it be for Easter Sunday or any gathering with friends and family, grocery shopping should be lower on your list of concerns,” continued McLaughlin. “This research reinforces our mission of providing quality and convenient meal solutions for gatherings of any size.” TOP 5 THINGS LESS STRESSFUL THAN HOSTING DINNER Catching a plane before the gate closes - 49% Dropping a phone - 48% Passing SATs - 44% Leaving your phone at home - 43% Spilling a drink on a white shirt - 43% TOP 5 THINGS DINNER HOSTS STRESS OVER How much food to prepare - 41% How clean their home is - 40% Figuring out how long it will take to prepare or cook food - 40% If guests will like the food - 39% If they have enough food - 37% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who celebrate Easter was commissioned by The Honey Baked Ham Company between February 17 and February 22, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

More than half of women said they can’t make it through two months of wintery weather (52%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 women looked at how the weather impacts their confidence and mood and found that on average, respondents can put up with only seven weeks of cold weather before needing to go somewhere warm. One in 10 women said they’re completely over the cold by at least January, ready to let the sun in. Respondents are looking forward to 64-degree weather as the start of spring, but nearly a third (30%) said their ideal spring temperature is a bit warmer — at least 70 degrees. Coming out of the colder season, a majority of respondents believe the weather between spring and winter should be considered an entirely separate season (72%). Conducted by OnePoll for Jergens on behalf of Glow Day (March 20), the survey found that people are over eager to get back into warm weather clothes, with 23% saying they switch back to t-shirts as early as March (23%). But coming out of colder months leaves many women feeling unconfident. Nearly half of women feel the least confident about their skin in the winter (49%), citing issues with dull skin (30%) and uneven skin tone (21%) during the colder months. Women also expressed feeling the least radiant in the peak of winter in December (36%) and January (41%). “Glowing skin is always in and can give people that boost of confidence to wear that skirt without tights or rock a crop top before summer hits, without the damaging UV rays,” says Stephanie Kimutis, senior brand manager for Jergens® Skincare. “We’re so excited for Glow Day to serve as the official start of self-tanning season to help our consumers feel and look their best as the weather heats up.” When they aren’t feeling confident, women said their physical appearance (49%) is the likeliest to suffer in addition to their sleep (47%) and overall happiness (47%). A third of those surveyed said a lack of confidence makes them care less about the way they look but surprisingly, even more respondents said they care more about their looks when they’re feeling down on themselves (43%). More than half of women also said they dress differently than the way they actually want to because they’re not confident in the way they look (56%). And for some, showing more skin means feeling more stressed, as 40% “always” or “often” feel unconfident about the way they look when wearing “warm-weather” clothing. Most women agreed that they want to look good on the outside to help them feel good on the inside (81%) and the same percentage want to feel like they’re “glowing” all year round to mimic the radiance they feel in May (31%) and June (34%). To help them get there, women shared that they use products that make them look “glowy” (24%) and a similar percentage tries to restore balance to their skin (23%). Those surveyed also shared that having a self-care routine is essential to help them feel good about themselves (60%) and keep them feeling balanced (47%). Respondents swear by their routines so much that most of those who have one said that their day tends to go poorly if they miss a step (53%). Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 women was commissioned by Jergens between February 24 and March 1, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Nearly half of Americans have a headache just thinking about their taxes (48%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults, 500 of them CPAs and bookkeepers, looked at some of the pain points around tax season. Most respondents start filing their taxes in February (39%) or March (28%), but the average tax professional estimates that 41% of people file their personal taxes too late, with one in six recommending that people start filing as early as January. Conducted by OnePoll for SurePayroll, the survey found that across the board, the most stressful parts of the tax process are gathering the necessary information (40%), waiting for employer documents (33%) and concerns about needing to pay money back (27%). “Starting tax prep well before April pays big returns for small business owners when it comes to reducing stress,” said Marcus O’Malley, SurePayroll CPA/reseller product lead. “Half of CPAs recommend that small business owners receive professional assistance with their taxes. And 79% have referred their clients to an online payroll service, a move that centralizes important tax prep documents and saves small business owners time and stress.” While 47% of all respondents file their taxes on their own, 53% consult a professional to help, including CPAs and bookkeepers (53%). Tax professionals consult others in their field when they need help maximizing their return (63%) or are looking for financial advice (62%). However, 73% admit that they’d be concerned with finding a professional who maximizes their return. They understand that time is money since the average CPA/bookkeeper would spend $1,900 for another professional to help meet their tax needs, and 43% would spend upwards of $2,000. For the average respondent who may have less extensive tax needs, people would spend just under $500 for professional help. CPAs and bookkeepers advise that professional tax help is necessary when someone makes a certain income (53%) and 44% said anyone who has any kind of paid job should seek a tax preparer’s opinion. Other pieces of advice they’d give to those filing taxes are to consider an alternative such as an online service or a large tax-preparing company (37%), make sure beneficiary designations are up to date (33%) and to take measures to shield yourself from tax scams/fraud (33%). Following some of this advice may help tax professionals in the long run who said the most stressful parts of their job are reviewing updates on tax codes (62%) and rectifying errors in estimates or client misinformation (58%). Being informed is an important first step, as just 30% of non-CPAs/bookkeepers knew when Tax Day was (April 18). However, more than a quarter of professionals also misidentified Tax Day this year (28%). According to CPAs, 1-2 weeks leading up to the deadline is the most stressful period of tax season (35%). And although the average professional worked on just 30 individual returns last season, one in eight rate their work-life balance as “fair” or “poor.” Still, CPAs said they’d be interested in adding “small business payroll” to their offerings (75%) to help broaden their capabilities (59%). “Even with just 24% of CPAs rating their work-life balance as excellent, a significant number (84%) are willing to teach a course to clients about basic tax information as a way to help small businesses in the community,” said O’Malley.“ As for plans for their return, more than a quarter of all those surveyed said they’ve already spent money they’re expecting to get back this year (28%). Others plan to spend the money they anticipate getting to pay off bills (45%), purchase essential items like household items or groceries (30%) or go on vacation (19%). However, some respondents may need a backup plan since one in eight have owed money at least five times in the past instead of getting any back. More than half of those surveyed said they wouldn’t be able to afford to owe a significant amount of money back for taxes this year (53%). LEAST-KNOWN TAX WRITE-OFFS CPAS WISH CLIENTS KNEW Child and dependent care tax credit — 34% Reinvested dividends — 32% Out-of-pocket charitable contributions — 31% Lifetime Learning credit — 31% Earned income tax credit (EITC) — 28% [TIED] Deduction of Medicare premiums for the self-employed — 28% [TIED] Student loan interest paid by you or someone else — 28% State sales tax — 23% American Opportunity credit — 19% State tax you paid last spring — 18% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 1,500 Americans who file taxes and 500 CPAs/bookkeepers was commissioned by SurePayroll between Feb. 22. and Feb. 24, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Two out of five schoolchildren have experienced learning loss over the past few years – and parents are worried that teacher shortages might be the cause, according to new research. A recent survey asked 1,500 parents to comment on the current state of their local school district, finding that 71% believe their child’s education has been impacted by nationwide staffing shortages. Respondents cited a lack of qualified teachers as their top concern (40%), almost twice as much as shortages in support staff members like nurses, janitorial crew, and administrators (25%). Three in four (77%) are also concerned about ongoing staffing shortages across the nation, which half (48%) have already experienced at their own child’s school. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Study.com, the survey also found that three in four parents feel their child has been facing setbacks at school as a result. In addition to learning loss (42%), those setbacks include having trouble concentrating (30%), coming home frustrated (25%) and falling behind in class (24%). One in four parents even reported that their child is failing a grade (24%), and one in five (19%) feel their child is exhibiting symptoms of burnout. Seventy-five percent of those who’ve witnessed learning loss said their child is struggling in at least two subjects, while almost 40% have noticed problems in five or more subjects. Over-reliance on substitute teachers stood out as the most obvious impact of shortages among those polled (31%) – not surprisingly, given that 44% have noticed their child being taught more frequently by substitutes than by their primary teacher. One in three (30%) are also concerned about unqualified teachers, and one in five (22%) have already experienced it in their child’s classroom. "Staffing shortages in the education sector can significantly impact students and their learning experience,” said Dana Bryson, senior vice president of Social Impact at Study.com. “Although states are introducing alternatives to credentialing in response to the educator shortage, teachers typically undergo rigorous preparation and evaluation, including obtaining a teaching degree, passing certification exams, and completing student teaching and other training programs." To overcome these learning gaps, a third of respondents have considered getting additional academic help for their child this school year (34%), and a fifth have already done so (20%). Broken down by racial and ethnic lines, Black parents were particularly concerned about this – 44% said they’ve thought about getting help for their kids, compared to just 35% of Hispanic/Latino parents and 32% of white parents. And four in ten (39%) have used online learning platforms, almost twice as many as the number who’ve sought out tutors (25%) or writing services (15%). “As a parent, finding the right educational services for your child is crucial to their academic success,” added Bryson. “When seeking additional support, it's important to look for credentials and factors that indicate quality and effectiveness. For example, look for materials written by accredited educators, assess the program's alignment with your child's educational goals, and consider if there are opportunities for skill assessment. Additionally, it's important to choose programs that are engaging and personalized to meet your child's individual needs and learning style." MOST PREVALENT SETBACKS OF STAFFING SHORTAGES 1. Having trouble concentrating - 30% 2. Coming home confused or frustrated - 25% 3. Falling behind in class - 24% 4. Feeling less confident - 23% 5. Feeling burnt out - 19% 6. Missing out on extracurricular activities - 17% 7. Failing a grade - 16% 8. Being taught the wrong material for their grade level - 12% 9. None of the above - 29% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 1,505 parents of school-age children (ages 5 to 18) was commissioned by Study.com between Dec. 21, 2022 and Jan. 3, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Do you sleep on your back, side, or stomach? For one in five Americans, it’s all of the above. That’s according to a new survey of 2,000 respondents, conducted ahead of World Sleep Day, which found that 22% of those polled switch up their sleeping position every single night. Not surprisingly, two out of three (64%) identified themselves as restless sleepers, citing anxiety (26%) and snoring partners (20%) as the biggest catalysts of their tossing and turning. And that tossing and turning seems to have consequences – only one in ten (10%) said they feel refreshed every single time they wake up in the morning. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Purple Innovation, the data also suggests that the majority of Americans (42%) prefer to sleep on their side, almost twice as many as those who called back-sleeping (18%) or stomach-sleeping (17%) their favorite position. However, that proved less true for millennial respondents (ages 26-42), who were most likely to sleep on their stomachs (19%) and least likely to sleep on their sides (38%). Interestingly, Millennials were most likely to change their sleeping position to accommodate neck pain (38%) – but also the most likely to report their sleep quality as “good" (73%) compared to the panel as a whole (66%). Regardless of demographics, pain ended up being a big sticking point for most respondents. Over half (53%) have attempted to deliberately change their sleeping position, most frequently to ease soreness (28%) or improve their quality of sleep (28%). Out of those polled who’ve experienced soreness, back pain (36%) emerged as the most common complaint, followed by neck pain (33%) and shoulder pain (24%). “We know from research that a good night’s sleep becomes essential to break the cycle of pain and that there is an unquestionable link between sleep and pain,” said Dr. Meeta Singh, a board-certified psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist at the Henry Ford Hospital. “Short sleep times, fragmented sleep, and poor sleep quality often causes heightened sensitivity to pain. As such, prioritizing sleep becomes an important step in managing pain. Additionally, people with pain learn to sleep in different positions that are comfortable to reduce the pain, so a mattress that cushions the pressure points and supports the spine, can be life-changing.” According to the poll, most respondents indicated a tendency to end up with their arms outstretched while sleeping. Forty-seven percent reported sleeping in the “yearner” position – on their side, with their arms out – while 40% ended up on their stomach in the “freefaller” position. Thirty-nine percent also found themselves in the “soldier” position, which involves sleeping on your back with your arms at your sides. Indeed, 69% even admitted to positioning their body “in whatever shape I need to fall asleep,” no matter how sore they feel in the morning. “It’s clear that the majority of Americans aren’t getting the deep sleep they need,” said Jeff Hutchings, Chief Innovation Officer at Purple. “People deserve a mattress that can balance temperature, respond instantly to movement, support the back and simultaneously cushion pressure points, all essential to a deeper, more rejuvenating sleep, no matter how you sleep.” MOST POPULAR MATTRESS SIZES - Full XL (54” x 80”) - 24% - Full (54” x 75”) - 23% - Queen (60” x 80”) - 19% - King (76” x 80”) - 14%         - Twin XL (38” by 80”) - 8% - California King (72” x 84”) - 4% - Twin (38” x 84”) - 4% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2011 general population Americans was commissioned by Purple Innovation between Feb. 3 and Feb. 6, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Have you ever received a smart home device as a gift? You’re in good company: over half of smart home consumers were gifted their first device and grew their collection from there. In a poll of 2,000 US adults with smart devices in their homes — devices that are connected to the internet and can be used to control other things throughout the home or be used as digital assistants — found 54% had their first smart devices gifted or bought for them. And for those that did buy their first devices, the average cost of entry was as little as $110. One in five (19%) said they were able to get their first device for under $75. The most popular “first” devices people flocked to were either cameras (18%) or streaming devices (16%). In fact, 45% of people with at least one smart home device said they own a smart camera. Other popular devices likely to make an appearance in the home are speakers (40%), streaming devices (40%), doorbells (27%) and lights (24%). Commissioned by Google Nest and conducted by OnePoll, the study also looked into the habits Americans have with their smart home devices. Half were found to interact with their devices at least once every day and 85% said they were experts with their devices within a week of getting them set up. The fastest adopters of smart home tech were found to be baby boomers — 66% said they started using their smart home devices daily “straight away.” The slowest adopters: Gen Z, where 46% surprisingly said it takes them at least four days to get acclimated to their devices. However, Gen Z was likely to have the least amount of opposition to owning smart home devices (63%), while millennials had the most amount of initial opposition (25%). “When people think of smart homes, many think these devices are for a really technical homeowner,” said Karen Yao, Director of Product at Google Nest. “In reality, with new smart home protocols like Matter, smart homes are more customizable and require less analysis to determine the best starting place or ecosystem for you. People can pair any of their Matter-enabled devices together to make a home that is more integrated and helpful than ever before.” Over a third (37%) claimed a sense of confidence in their smart home expertise and 41% agreed having a “smart” home can only be achieved by knowing how to use them to automate their home. Just over half (51%) of those surveyed said they’d tried their hand at setting up automations and routines throughout their homes, where their devices can handle basic tasks — like turning lights on or off or playing music — without needing human input. The most popular routines respondents were proud of were bedtime routines (22%), morning routines (17%) and security-related routines (15%). Yet there were still plenty who felt hesitant about using their devices. Over a third (34%) said they’d be more likely to automate more of their homes if they understood the benefits of home automation in the first place. Another 27% said they’d be more inclined to use their devices if they could learn more about how to best use them. “Getting started is always the hardest step. There are a lot of decisions, like what to buy and how to set it up,” explained Karen. “I got my start by asking friends and family members for their recommendations on devices and helpful automations/routines. These devices can offer so much creative and practical use. As a working mom, I can tell you they’re lifesavers when you need hands-free help in your home.” TOP 7 SMART HOME “NEEDS” FOR DEVICES -It needs to be easy to install and use - 40% -It needs to help me keep my family and home safe - 40% -It needs to be private and secure - 39%  -It needs to last for years - 37% -It needs to work with other devices in my home - 36%      -It needs to do multiple things - 33% -It needs to alert me to specific things - 32% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who own at least one smart home device was commissioned by Google Nest between December 1 and December 6, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Sharing isn’t always caring: a third of Americans don’t think the bill should be split evenly if the meals didn’t cost the same amount, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults looked at some of the things people struggle with sharing and found that even with family members, just 26% are okay with sharing personal information like passwords and text messages. When it comes to their partner, people revealed that they are likely to share things like clothing (50%) and money (57%), but the same doesn’t always go for food. Two in three respondents in a relationship said when sitting down for a meal with their partner, what’s theirs is theirs and they won’t share (67%), with millennials the largest demographic sharing this anti-sharing sentiment (74%). Conducted by OnePoll in conjunction with Fogo de Chão, the survey also found that people aren’t willing to let just anyone pick off their plate — a fifth of respondents even said they’d have to know someone for at least six months before they feel comfortable sharing food. And when eating out with others, nearly half of Americans said someone has tried something off their plate without asking (48%) — but the same percentage are guilty of doing the same. Sixty-five percent even said that if someone asked them to try their food, they’d immediately think about not inviting them out the next time. Similarly, 46% would consider it a dealbreaker if they were on a first date with someone who asked to try their food — especially Gen Z (63%) who see this as a major red flag. Seven in 10 admitted that ultimately, they reluctantly say “yes” to requests to share food because they don’t know how to say “no.” “When you’re enjoying a great meal, it’s only natural that you don’t want to share a bite, even with your closest friends and family,” said Barry McGowan, CEO of Fogo de Chão. “Dining out should bring people together to bond over the discovery of trying new and delicious foods and the shared experience, without needing to share plates.” While main courses are typically off-limits, 63% of people “always” or “often” order shareable items for the table when eating out. Even though many don’t like to share, respondents agree that it can have perks. Nearly three-quarters said they want to try new things when eating out but are afraid they won’t like them enough (73%). When sharing with others, people enjoy the benefit of being able to try different foods (35%) and not having to commit to one menu item (19%). However, those surveyed noted there are rules around food-sharing etiquette (57%) like sticking a piece on the other person’s fork (23%) or passing it on a separate plate (22%). And the rules for trading are completely different. Half of respondents have ended up trading their entire meals with someone because they liked their food better (49%). “Generosity is at the heart of Brazilian hospitality,” said Barry McGowan, CEO of Fogo de Chão. “Sharing the experience of a meal, specifically something you’ve never tried before is a great way to bond and create connections and memories with friends, new and old.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Fogo de Chão between Feb. 3 and Feb. 7, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Six in 10 female small business owners who opened their business prior to 2022 said the past year has been the most challenging for their business (63%), according to new research. The survey of 1,000 female small business owners also found that one in six are stressed out every day. This may be because more women are starting businesses out of necessity — more than a quarter reported being let go or laid off before opening their business (28%), compared to just 14% of respondents last year. Nearly a quarter are experiencing concerns with fatigue (23%) and finding employees (13%). However, the survey conducted by OnePoll for Office Depot found that funding concerns are down (47% last year vs. 42% this year), as fewer said they still worried about it compared to last year. Despite the challenges they’ve encountered over the last year, most of those who were previously employed somewhere else said their work-life balance has actually improved since opening their own business (73%). But they don’t have it all down to a science — female small business owners said they’d benefit from having marketing materials (35%), networking tools or platforms (34%) or access to office supplies (25%) to help their business. Business mentors are also needed, especially among female small business owners of color (33% compared to 20% of white SBOs). They’ll also need to overcome some of the challenges of working from home since that’s where most female SBOs (55%) are running their businesses from. This means substantial investments in building a dedicated at-home workspace. One in five claim they’ve invested more than $5,000 of their own money in at-home equipment and tools to help run their business. This includes purchases like laptops (36%), printers (35%) and software programs (24%). “The last few years have demonstrated that it’s possible to start, run and grow a successful business from home with the right products, services and solutions,” said Kevin Moffitt, executive vice president of The ODP Corporation and president of Office Depot. “We’re committed to helping these entrepreneurs get everything they need to succeed.” Respondents also shared some personal difficulties they face when working from home like “sticking to a schedule while trying to be a full-time mom,” “missing out on the ‘human touch’ or being with other people in person” or “making new contacts.” While at home, small business owners are keeping their families busy, too — a third of respondents employ family members (35%). Interestingly, nearly a fifth of female business owners say it’s against their philosophy to employ family members (19%). Overall, female small business owners are feeling rewarded for their efforts in the same ways as last year: 70% enjoy being their own boss above all, up from 66% last year. "When provided with easy access to innovative tools and resources, the sky is the limit for what these small business owners can achieve,” said Wesley Brinkhurst, vice president of marketing for Office Depot. “And that success ripples throughout their communities, inspiring others and spurring new businesses.” Success could be measured in several ways. Over the next year, respondents are aiming to grow their profit (59%), gain more clientele/customers (53%) and expand their business (28%). And if you’re looking to venture off into entrepreneurship, the survey asked the most important pieces of advice respondents would pass along. Female business owners want others to know that part of owning a business means that there will always be periods of “highs” and “lows” (56%) and that it takes extensive time and effort (52%). Other words of advice are that making connections is important (43%) and to be prepared since new challenges are always popping up (42%). CHALLENGES FEMALE SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS SHARED ABOUT RUNNING A BUSINESS FROM HOME “Always being on the clock” “Balancing distractions, staying on task, organizing space, and managing work-life in the same space” “Being able to lie down too much. Not having co-worker camaraderie” “Customers wanting to come into an actual office space” “Finding enough space for storage” “Finding qualified employees is the most difficult part of running my business” “Getting so consumed and hyper-focused...tend to work longer hours. Will also pop in the office to work after hours too often” “Having a very young child and needing to balance getting a job done in a timely manner as a single parent” “Just having the motivation to work at home sometimes is rough” “Keeping personal information private and not being productive” “Making new contacts” “Missing out on the 'human touch' or being with other people (in person)” “Stable internet connection” “Sticking to a schedule while trying to be a full-time mom” “That people expect me to be available all of the time, just because I'm at home and not at an office” “Building a brand, developing a customer base, and so on” “Not having enough space, not having big enough equipment, and not having a commercial store to sell my product in” “The worst thing is when people think that they can bother you during your work hours just because they know that you are at home” “Time management and lack of efficient workspace” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 1,000 female small business owners was commissioned by Office Depot between Feb. 1 and Feb. 6, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Half of Americans who live with their partner are willing to channel their inner Lucy and Desi … by sleeping in separate beds. A recent survey of 2,000 U.S. adults who live with a partner discovered that 49% would be willing to try sleeping in a separate bed as a way to get better rest, and that may be because the average cohabiting person receives less than four good nights of sleep a week. But that doesn’t mean couples don’t want their quality time together. Despite a willingness to sleep in separate beds, more than two in five people (42%) prefer going to sleep at the same time as their partner, and they use their time before closing their eyes to watch TV shows or movies together (28%), and chat about their day (24%). And, once couples are ready to go to sleep, 53% of those surveyed prefer to cuddle their partner. Conducted by OnePoll for Serta Simmons Bedding timed to National Sleep Awareness Month, the survey also explored what those who co-sleep view as their biggest sleep disruptors. Those surveyed shared that their biggest annoyance is when their partner steals the covers (35%), wakes them up tossing and turning (35%), sleeps with the television on (28%), snores (28%) or sleeps with the lights on (27%). The survey also found a divide with regards to the age-old question – do you shower before bed? Nearly two-thirds (64%) gave a resounding “yes” and 58% confirmed they would be bothered if their partner didn’t wash up before bedtime. Parents may also be struggling with more than just their partner’s sleep habits. More than one third reported that their child snuck into their bed two nights a week (37%) while one in five (20%) claimed that they were woken up with a little one coming to their bed three nights a week. “Great sleep is grounded in maintaining a strong sleep routine, whether you sleep on your own or co-sleep,” said JD Velilla, head of sleep experience at Serta Simmons Bedding. “For those who are looking to optimize co-sleeping, it’s important to work with your partner to commit to good sleep habits including regular sleep and wake times and minimizing light before bedtime. I also suggest removing unnecessary distractions from the bedroom, transforming it into a sleep sanctuary.” People are creatures of habit and 40% of respondents continue to sleep on their own side of the bed when their partner is away. When sleeping away from home with their partner, 45% said the same rules apply. Sleep habits can start during childhood. More than half of those surveyed (56%) grew up sharing their room with a family member such as a sibling, and the vast majority of these respondents (86%) credit this experience for preparing them to be more accepting of sharing a room with their partner. And, many adults haven’t let go of their blankie. Fifty-two percent of those surveyed grew up sleeping with a security blanket or stuffed animal, and 77% of this group reported continuing to do so, even when sharing a bed with their partner. Ultimately, when asked what could contribute to better sleep beyond sleeping in separate beds, respondents cited the following solutions: a new/better mattress (36%), new/better pillows (34%), or a bigger bed (29%). “Many people co-sleep and with that comes a natural set of sleep disruptors,” added Velilla. “Individuals who co-sleep can look for solutions that minimize those disruptions, from features that address motion transfer to avoid middle-of-the-night wake ups to cooling technology that becomes that much more essential when sharing a bed.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans who live with their partner was commissioned by Serta Simmons Bedding between Feb. 16 and Feb. 20, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Nearly half of American women don’t exercise enough because of burnout (46%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 women found that 57% said they used to exercise more frequently than they do now, with exercise burnout sidelining them for nine days at a time. On average, women exercise four times a week, although 52% admit to exercising three times or less. The average workout lasts 44 minutes and consists of a variety of exercises like aerobics (50%), jumping rope (48%), lifting weights (45%), Kegels (44%) and yoga (41%). Many know that there’s room for improvement with 69% confessing that they know they don’t put enough effort into exercising. Conducted by OnePoll for INTIMINA, the survey also found some of the barriers to women not getting enough exercise, such as feeling tired beforehand (49%), feeling like exercising is difficult (47%) and not having enough time (42%). Additionally, a third of women claim they haven’t seen results from exercising, leaving them feeling insecure (12%) and hopeless (12%). Respondents said they would exercise more if they had more motivation (53%) and better ways to measure their results (34%). Forty-eight percent also said they’d exercise more if they knew how to correctly perform exercises, as one in eight aren’t confident that they can complete a workout correctly. Results show that women are least confident in knowing how to do tricep dips, wallsits and bear crawls correctly. However, most agree that now is the best time they can take care of their bodies (80%) and that it’ll only get harder with age (76%). “At every age, our bodies undergo changes — some expected, some unexpected,” said Dunja Kokotovic, INTIMINA global brand manager. “As women, we must pay attention to these changes and provide ourselves with the necessary preventative care. Whether in their twenties, thirties, forties, or beyond, women's body deserves the same level of attention and care. By being proactive and addressing any issues early on, women can maintain optimal intimate health throughout their lives. We're committed to helping women embrace the beauty of their bodies at every age and feel confident in their skin, inside and out.” Thinking about the future, women know they’ll need to strengthen parts of their body such as their waist (43%), hips (42%) and shoulders (27%). Some of the lesser-considered body parts include glutes or the pelvic floor. Still, respondents offered up advice for preventing issues like “don’t wait too late to keep up on getting your body checked out,” which may be especially relevant since most women haven’t gotten a pelvic exam within the past year (62%), despite recommendations from professionals. Other words of advice included “be proactive in keeping fit in all bodily areas and not just those that you can see” and “it’s important to do Kegels before you get older and have issues.” Women may struggle to put this advice into action since 62% are not confident they know how to do Kegels correctly, believing myths like the best way to do them are to squeeze as hard as possible (49%), they’re only helpful after a problem arises (43%) or that they’re hard to do (42%). More than a third of women have experienced issues with their pelvic floor (39%). "Every woman deserves to feel confident, comfortable and empowered in her body,” Kokotovic said. “That's why we're passionate about promoting the benefits of Kegels — not just for intimacy but for overall pelvic health. Kegels are like a secret superpower for women. They may not seem like much, but these simple exercises can work wonders for women's intimate health: prevent leaks, enhance intimacy, and improve overall health. The key is to do them correctly and consistently and make them a part of a daily routine. By doing this, women can take a proactive step towards maintaining their intimate health and enhancing their overall well-being. Kegels can help maintain pelvic health and prevent issues like incontinence, regardless of life stage. Women should embrace the power of Kegels and feel confident in their bodies at every age." WHAT WOULD WOMENS’ IDEAL WORKOUT ROUTINE CONSIST OF? 1. Aerobic exercise — 43% 2. Jumping rope — 41% 3. Lifting weights — 38% 4. Kegels — 34% 5. Jogging/running — 31% 6. Squats — 29% 7. Yoga — 27% 8. Lunges — 19% 9. Cycling — 16% 10. Planks — 11% Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 women was commissioned by Intimina between Feb. 6 and Feb. 7, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Two-thirds of Americans claim they’d ignore their taste buds if it meant they’d be healthy (64%), according to new research. In a poll of 2,000 adults examining what “healthy” food looks like, most respondents said if there were a superfood that had all the nutrients they could possibly need, they’d eat it even if they didn’t like the taste. The survey found that it can be hard to know just how healthy their meals are for sure since the majority of Americans don’t understand more than half of a nutrition label (54%). As more understandable terms, respondents shared that they associate language like “low-fat” (49%), “low calories” (47%) or “veggie-forward” (36%) with being “healthy.” While those surveyed prioritize foods that have the right amount of protein (52%) and carbs (41%) the most, they admit their diet could use more vitamins (35%) and fiber (34%). Conducted by OnePoll for meal kit brand, GreenChef, results also showed that most respondents believe their diet is at least somewhat balanced (73%), although 51% admit that just half of their weekly meals are “healthy.” The idea of “healthy eating” makes people feel motivated (46%) and inspired (37%), while others say it makes them feel overwhelmed (34%) and stressed out (29%). In fact, a quarter of respondents (26%) feel it’s hard to maintain a healthy diet. Why? The cost was found to be the biggest barrier to eating healthy with half of the respondents saying it’s simply too expensive of a habit (50%). The availability of healthy foods was also found to be a big hurdle for 49% of respondents. As a result, nearly a third of respondents say the variety of “healthy” food options available is average at best (29%). Most Americans also agree that their emotions have an impact on deciding what foods they choose to eat (78%). "While the majority of Americans feel they need to sacrifice taste for healthy eating, there's really no need to make that tradeoff when you use quality ingredients in your cooking," said Luke Esbenson, culinary development manager at Green Chef. "There are so many different ways to prepare and cook well-balanced, nutritious recipes that are also incredibly delicious." When asked what makes food “unhealthy,” people felt that high sodium levels (45%) and fat content (43%) were the biggest indicators, while only 16% said high-calorie count. Interestingly, only one in ten respondents (13%) felt an unbalanced meal was unhealthy. Finding the right balance is key, as 68% said for them, healthy eating requires sacrificing some of their favorite foods and a similar percentage agreed that sometimes, there are comfort foods worth eating even if they don’t have significant nutritional value (62%). Men may be more likely than women to cave into those comfort food cravings — 68% of men agreed that there are potentially “unhealthy” comfort foods worth eating, compared to 59% of women. To make healthy eating easier, respondents recommend making a list before shopping (50%), having a positive attitude (45%) and keeping healthy snacks on hand (44%). "With our study revealing that healthy eating makes people feel both motivated and inspired, it's important to make the process as easy as possible," said Luke Esbenson, Culinary Development Manager at Green Chef. "Using simple strategies like meal kits for planning ahead or even keeping nutritious snacks on hand can help make healthy eating a stress-free experience." Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by GreenChef between Jan. 30 and Jan. 31, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

The top strategies to beat snoring include using extra pillows, drinking water before bed – and putting a tennis ball in your pajamas to stop you lying on your back. A study of 2,000 US adults found 52% either snore or have a partner who does, with 72% of those resorting to a host of tricks to try and silence the noise. Nasal strips, dilators or spray, a hot shower before bed and even sleeping sitting up also featured in the top 30 list. But while some avoid alcohol before bed or even at all (both 15%), one in 10 swear by a drink before nodding off to stop snoring. Others have resorted to taping their mouth, putting a clothes pin on their nose or sleeping with their head at the end of the bed. The survey, commissioned by www.mutesnoring.com and executed in partnership with WebMD and OnePoll, as part of the new 2023 Annual Sleep & Snore Report, also found 53% of those who snore or live with a snorer are so fed up with the noise, they would do anything do stop it. This sees them spend an average of $45.30 a year on items to try and silence it, but they would be willing to spend up to $596.60 if it meant it would stop for good. More than four in 10 (42%) would even consider surgery in a bid to bring an end to the habit. “Snoring can be disruptive, and people are willing to give pretty much anything a go to put a stop to it,” says Michael Johnson, CEO Rhinomed for www.mutesnoring.com. “And while some of these are fairly routine strategies — and indeed many proven to help — there are some more unusual things being put to the test. “While things like using extra pillows, humidifiers and opening up the airways can all help with snoring, things like having a hot shower before bed, sleeping upside down in the bed and wearing an eye mask aren’t likely to help that much. “Whether you are the snorer, or the person who has to put up with the noise from a partner, it can have a huge impact on your sleep, relationship and life generally. “As a result, there are some who are willing to do whatever it takes to put a stop to it.” It also emerged 38% have ended up sleeping in separate bedrooms, and 28% have resorted to sleeping tablets. But for 15%, it has got so bad, they have had a relationship end because of one of them snoring. In a bid to stop snoring, 42% have turned to the internet for advice, while 32% have gone to friends and family for help. And 37% have even sought help from health professionals. Although 60% admitted they have simply come to accept that it’s never going to go away. It also emerged that those classed as obese are more likely to be snorers (57%) than those who have an underweight (19%) or healthy (29%) BMI. While 36% of men snore compared to 32% of women. Michael Johnson added: “Snoring doesn’t have to be something you simply put up with. “With sound strategies, you really can reduce or even eliminate the snoring noise in your bedroom – and not surprisingly, improving your nasal breathing is one of the best things snorers can do.” TOP STRATEGIES PEOPLE HAVE TRIED TO STOP SNORING Using extra pillows Nasal strips/ dilator Hot shower or bath before bed Drinking more water Having a humidifier on Sleeping sitting up Sleeping the other way round e.g. head at the end of the bed Avoiding alcohol completely (i.e. not just before bed) Avoiding alcohol before bed Nasal spray before bed Saline rinses/ sprays Sipping warm honey and lemon before bed Using a mouthguard Rubbing decongestant onto your chest before bed Exercise before bed Wearing an eye mask Eating mints before bed Buying anti-snore pillows Wearing compression socks Snoring exercises Buy a snoring ring that’s meant to stop you snoring Rubbing Vaseline on the tip of your nose Put a tennis ball in your Pjs to stop you lying on your back Drinking alcohol before bed Humming / singing Thyme oil on your feet Throat exercises Putting a peg on your nose Acupuncture Taping your mouth MUTE AMBASSADOR & SLEEP EXPERT OLIVIA AREZZOLO HAS THESE TOP FIVE TIPS TO REDUCE SNORING: 1. Reduce alcohol intake - Alcohol is a prime risk factor for snoring: it relaxes the muscles in the upper airways, causing them to collapse through the night and amplify snoring. 2. Sleep on your side - By sleeping on your back, you exacerbate snoring - however, sleeping on your side, or at the very least, having your face on the side, this reduces it. 3. Ensure you are at a healthy weight - weight reduction for those carrying excess weight can improve snoring - so much so that in some cases, symptoms can be eliminated. 4. Consider a nasal dilator - for a simple, straightforward solution which can help to make breathing easier at night. 5. Improve air quality. Well ventilated, purified air reduces the risk that snoring is due to pollution and airborne critters that may offset allergies - which can otherwise lead to irritated airways, congestion and amplify snoring

Those who travel to celebrate special occasions are happier and more successful than those who don’t, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults looked at their thoughts on milestone travel and found that while 48% save travel for special occasions, another 40% think you should travel as much as you can. Respondents who vacation to celebrate their special moments are more likely to say they’re happy (88% vs. 76%) and deem themselves successful (89% vs. 71%) than those who believe in traveling as much as possible. Those who believe travel should be reserved for occasions are also likely to describe themselves as cynical (45%), brave (45%) and loyal (45%). On the other hand, those who believe in traveling as much as possible say they’re not only loyal (44%), but also intelligent (34%) and funny (31%). Overall, a majority of all respondents agree that it’s important to celebrate momentous occasions (83%) and nearly three-quarters claim they go all out when doing so (74%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of BeachBound, the survey found that while many go on vacation to celebrate romantic milestones such as their honeymoon (46%) and wedding (45%), others also take trips to celebrate yearly occasions like anniversaries (45%) and birthdays (45%). Respondents revealed that the top birthdays worth a trip away are turning 50 (38%), 30 (35%) and 25 (31%). People have also traveled to celebrate other big moments in their lives like buying a home (29%), graduating high school (25%) and getting a job (20%). When celebrating these occasions away, respondents reported feeling loved (48%), blissful (38%) and even motivated for what comes next (44%). More than seven in 10 admit they’re also more likely to talk to strangers on vacation than their normal day-to-day (77%), and 60% would even enjoy being congratulated by strangers if they were celebrating a special occasion. It’s no surprise, then, that most respondents wish they could be their vacation selves at home (78%). To share this feeling, 55% have gifted a loved one a vacation to celebrate a milestone, and 62% would love it if someone did the same for them. “A vacation is a way to try new experiences and build new memories and that’s why we’re seeing people express an interest in traveling to celebrate those meaningful moments and milestones,” said Dana Studebaker, vice president of marketing of consumer brands at ALG Vacations. “It’s a way to extend that moment and make it extra memorable.” The survey also looked at respondents’ views on what these celebratory trips should look like and found that more people prefer to celebrate milestones with intimate gatherings (37%) as opposed to large crowds (23%). Interestingly, more Americans also think that the host or guest of honor should front the costs (28%) instead of the invited guests (24%). To make these memories count, people would splurge on dining (60%) and experiences (58%) to celebrate a milestone more than if it were a regular vacation. The itinerary should also consist of dinner at a fancy restaurant (53%), having cake or some other celebratory food (52%) and decking the guest of honor out with a specialty item like a sash or crown (52%). To make sure all falls into place, more than a quarter of respondents would start planning for this trip at least six months out (28%). “Birthdays and anniversaries occur every year but by choosing to plan trips around specific milestones such as a 50th birthday, 10th anniversary, or even huge achievements such as a job promotion or graduation help justify the costs surrounding travel,” Studebaker said. “More so than on a regular vacation, we believe that milestone trips should be excuses to pull out all the stops and get a massage, book the private dinner, treat yourself and your loved ones to an experience that you’ll never forget.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by BeachBound between Feb. 16 and Feb. 21, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

Although age brings wisdom, one in nine Americans 64 and older still don’t have life figured out, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans 64 and older dispelled the idea that older people have all of the answers, although more than half said that everyone expects them to (57%). Fifty-four percent of respondents even said they feel like there’s “always” or “often” pressure on them to make the best decisions, and nearly a fifth agree that decision-making is actually harder as they get older (17%). One in seven admit they tend to prioritize their wants over their needs, which is where they could use some outside help. Two-thirds of seniors said they consult others before making a big decision (67%), but this isn’t always an easy task. Twenty-six percent said relying on others is one of the scariest parts of aging (26%). Conducted by OnePoll for ClearMatch Medicare, the survey found that seniors used to feel most confident about making large financial purchases (29%) and investing (28%) on their own, but would now consult others about those decisions beforehand (31%, 35% respectively). Respondents said they’d also ask for help when it comes to facets of their health like choosing a healthcare plan (27%) or changing their diet (18%). To help them make decisions, seniors are most likely to trust their partner (44%), revealing that they’re the least judgmental (31%) and most helpful (32%) person in their life. Others also put their trust in their children (37%) and friends (29%). Seniors have struggled to find their “perfect match” in different areas of their lives over the past five years. Even when seeking help, 40% have found themselves in a situation where they committed to something that wasn’t right for them within the past five years. Respondents struggle with different parts of everyday life such as finding a workout routine that suits their needs (20%) or nailing down their own style (17%). Health concerns such as finding the right healthcare (20%) and doctor (19%) are also high on their list of instances where they struggle to find “the one.” “Let’s face it, as we get older, making an informed Medicare decision is crucial for your health and financial well-being,” explains Ben Pajak, CEO of ClearMatch Medicare (a part of HealthPlanOne). “But no one should feel alone when making such an important decision. There are options to help you make the right choice; whether you rely on someone you trust or professionals who understand different plans, you can ensure you choose the best coverage options that meet your unique healthcare needs and budget.” When making these tough choices, mistakes do happen. The average American 64 and older admitted they make the same mistake twice before they learn from it, even leading them to feel “buyer’s remorse” three times within the past year. Seniors struggle to learn from their mistakes when they overthink the outcome (22%) and can’t figure out what went wrong (21%), while others find it hard to even accept that they were wrong (18%) and struggle to find a workable solution (17%). In the case of making mistakes, respondents shared the top three things to take away: understanding what didn’t work (28%), recognizing what could have been done better (28%) and keeping an open mind (23%). To help them make the right decision, seniors shared that they wish they could have test-drove their apartment (18%), life path (22%) and even their doctor (23%) before making a decision. If they had the chance, 67% of seniors said they’d change their health insurance after realizing their plan wasn’t a match for them. “It’s clear that seniors are constantly on the hunt to find their ‘perfect match’ in all areas of life,” said Jennifer Girdler, vice president of sales at HealthPlanOne. “In fact, 55% of those who have health insurance said they'd jump on a ‘second chance’ to switch their plan to one that better suits them in 60 days or less. Many people might not know, but the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment period, which currently runs through March 31, is the time to help those in a Medicare Advantage plan make one more change before the fall annual enrollment period. This is your second chance at finding the right match.”

Only 14% of parents get enough “parenting breaks” every day. A recent survey of 2,000 parents with school-age children (ages 5–18) discovered parents sometimes get creative to take a break — including hiding in the bathroom (40%) or pretending to be asleep (34%). Sometimes, though, an extra set of hands does the trick. Respondents credit a parent of their own (59%) and a grandparent (53%) with “saving the day” by taking care of their child. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Family Dollar, the survey also found the absolute must-haves for taking care of their young ones, including snacks (57%), toys (56%), wet wipes (55%) and arts and crafts supplies (55%). A blanket (52%), towel (50%) and games (43%) were also popular among parents, even outranking smartphones and tablets (37%). The average parent spends 177 hours a year shopping in person for the products in their “lifesaver” stash. However, parents tend to run out of these necessities 54 times a year. The top three occasions parents rely on their must-haves the most? Traveling (44%), playdates (34%), and school (33%). People also shared the things they wished they had an unlimited supply of when they entered parenthood, with many noting “diapers” and “wet wipes.” “There’s never enough time in the day for busy parents who are looking for creative ways to do more with less,” said Bonita Price, SVP of Merchandising for Family Dollar. “By making it convenient and affordable for parents to replenish their supply of wipes and snacks or pick up a toy, they can do more for themselves, their families and their budget.” Upon realizing they’ve run out of a must-have parenting item, 28% go to the nearest physical store that has it, while 26% use an alternative item. Forty-four percent say having a specific parenting item on hand has come in handy in an unexpected situation for both their own and another parent’s child. That may be partly why over a third (34%) would give themselves an “A” for parenting. “Shopping online may seem quick, but when they need something in a pinch, a brick-and-mortar store can help parents ‘save the day,’” Price added. PARENTS’ MUST-HAVES Snacks - 57% Toys - 56% Wet wipes - 55% Arts and crafts supplies (paper, crayons, pencils, etc.) - 55% Blanket - 52% Towel - 50% Games - 43% Books - 42% Smartphone/tablet - 37% Coffee - 32% Vacuum cleaner - 29% A babysitter - 28% Storage bins - 28% Backpack or tote bag - 27% Slippers - 27% Smart devices (e.g., speakers, thermostats, etc.) - 27% Planner - 26% Thermos - 24% Pressure cooker/slow cooker - 24% Headphones - 20% Handheld/body massager - 11% Parents run out of must-have items for taking care of their child 4.5x a month x 12 = 54 times a year 3.4 hours a week shopping in person for must-have items x 52 weeks in a year = 176.8 hours a year Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 U.S. parents of school-age children (ages 5–18) was commissioned by Family Dollar between Jan. 30 and Jan. 31, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).