Over half of Brits feel parts of their lives whether it is family, work, or finances are ‘out of control’. The pressure to juggle personal finances, maintain work-life balance, and preserve physical health has left many feeling overwhelmed. The research commissioned by Smart Energy GB found that many the adults the struggle to stay focused on important tasks, frequently means many are left unfinished and pile up over time.
Smart Energy GB has teamed up with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) to share practical strategies to regain control. Darts, often unfairly perceived as a “pub game,” is a high-pressure sport where mental focus and concentration are essential, especially when it takes place in front of a rowdy crowd. But these qualities are transferable to tackling everyday life challenges.
Professional Stephen Bunting has shared some of the secrets behind his darting success, highlighting a calm, methodical approach even during high-stress situations, which can be applied your day-to-day to help ensure you are not easily distracted.
“Whether I’m at the oche or preparing for a tournament, I know that feeling of being under pressure all too well, and it can get overwhelming,” he admitted. “Over time, I’ve learned ways to deal with it, so I can keep calm and stay in control of my game.”
Bunting elaborated on his strategy, stressing the importance of consistency: “One thing I do that helps me a lot is sticking to a daily routine. Creating healthy habits that work for me means I can make sure I’m consistent, perform at my best and stay in control.”
Supporting this approach, sports psychologist Dr. Josie Perry explains how mental preparation leads to better focus. She advices taking a few additional seconds to step back and breathe before making important decisions or taking important actions.
She also suggested: “Identifying one important thing you can do that’s going to reduce pressure when you’re stressed, and focusing on completing that first, will help you get back in control.”
Another tip she advised her clients to do is categorise their worries into three columns: things you can control, things you can influence and things you have no control over at all. This method helps to proactively focus attention on aspects you can manage.
For example, the research shows that two thirds of Brits are aiming to gain more control over their finances in 2025 and beyond, with 14% feeling overwhelmed ‘very often’ by the current cost of living. In an attempt to regain control, many have opted for a smart meter installation – an aspect that they can control. Of those who have installed one, more than half believe it helps them feel more in control of energy bills.
On a positive note, 20% believe they’re ‘very organised’ when it comes to managing their day-to-day life, according to figures from OnePoll.com.
But to help reinforce these more focused habits, Dr Josie suggests ‘habit stacking’ – introducing a new behaviour immediately after something you already do often – this will help successful training techniques settle in more easily.
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