6 Reasons DIY is good for the soul

Wanting to discover what drives Brits to tackle DIY tasks around the home, we surveyed 2000 people to reveal whether they think doing renovation projects has an impact on their mood and wellbeing.

Admittedly, it was a generation split we didn’t quite expect. Those brought up in an age of convenience appeared to feel the most passionate about doing things themselves, with three quarters (75%) of millennials stating DIY has a positive effect on their wellbeing. Over two thirds (67%) of 16-25 year old’s agreed that doing home improvements made them happy, whereas for 35-54 year olds, it’s all about saving themselves some cash.

If you’ve never thought DIY could have a positive impact on your state of mind, here’s six reasons you should break out the tools and start a home project today:

1. Keeps you active

Our research showed a third (33%) of over 55’s believe DIY is good for keeping them active, but it’s not just an outcome effective for the older generation.

Hands on work gets you off the sofa and generally has you breaking a sweat, so forget about calling the handyman when you can, and tackle easy, secure jobs yourself. 

2. Gets your creative juices flowing

A quick way to trigger a fresh outlook on an issue both at work or at home, is to turn off for a few and get your hands busy putting up shelves or sanding down furniture. Plus, all the planning and thought that’s gone into your new project could easily spark creative ideas elsewhere. 

3. Keeps your mind busy

Sometimes you just need to stop yourself worrying or thinking about things you can’t control - but not everyone can focus mindlessly on TV when there’s bigger things to think about. In fact, one in five (20%) women surveyed claimed they do DIY as a way of keeping their mind focused on something other than their daily worries.

Doing something productive that doesn’t require a lot of thought, can help you step away from everyday stresses and generally improve your mood overall. 

4. Something to do together

Over one in seven (15%) Brits suggested home improvement projects were something they did as a family. So rather than breaking out the popcorn and throwing on yet another family friendly rom-com, set yourself a family challenge and work together to make something you can all be proud of.

5. Boosts confidence

If you’re a first time home owner, or new to living on your own, completing your own renovation projects can help build confidence. Being able to performing practical tasks to keep your home running can be a great way to feel more self-sufficient and calm in normally panicked situations.

6. Step away from technology

Having a break from technology when you come home from work – where it just can’t be escaped - is proven to help aid a good night’s sleep and relieve stress, so why not preoccupy your time with something creative? Add personal touches to furniture or create a whole new space with some imagination and you’ll not only have something to show off, it’ll have you sleeping like a baby

To learn more about why DIY is good for the soul, see the full results of our survey.