We all know how demanding and often stressful modern life is, but scientists have their own recipe for perfect balance in our 24 hours. Specifically, a new study comes to propose a recipe – almost to the hour – for what an ideal day could look like.
According to researchers at the University of British Columbia, data from the “American Time Use Survey” was analyzed, where participants recorded how much time they spend on 100 different daily activities.
From how much time they spend with family and friends, to how much doomscrolling they do on their phone and how much exercise they get during the day.
The experts focused on the days that participants described as “better than usual” and measured the time they dedicated to the activities that made them feel more satisfied.
The result? A schedule that – according to the study – describes what a truly good day looks like.
How many hours do they consider ideal for each activity?
According to the study, a perfect day includes:
- 6 hours of quality time with family
- 2 hours with friends
- 1.5 hours of general socializing
- 2 hours of exercise
- 1 hour dedicated to eating and drinking
- 6 hours of work
- 15 minutes of commuting
- 1 hour in front of screens
Sleep? It’s not explicitly included in the schedule, but there’s no doubt that for many, the ideal day begins – or ends – with a good dose of rest.
The truth is that the above guide is more like a general outline than a realistic routine. Nevertheless, it offers an interesting insight into how most people imagine a balanced and enjoyable day.
Beware of excessive positivity
Amidst all this, experts also draw attention to another trap: toxic positivity.
This term refers to the tendency to avoid or suppress negative emotions, pretending that everything is fine – even when it is not.
A positive attitude is important, psychologists emphasize, but only when it does not act as a “mask” for how we really feel. Being good does not mean denying the bad. It means acknowledging it and moving forward with authenticity.