When we looked at the range of activities people tend to do, we could see that there are four ways we use privacy as a means to reach the wellbeing boost that we need. Some involve more energy, some less, but all have a positive impact and create time and space for personal growth.
Lower Energy
RECOVERY
Sometimes all we need is a breather. When in recovery mode, we slow down to de-stress and take things quietly and calmly, which could mean watching TV, meditating or a 30-minute nap.
“I had a very busy day at work and getting public transport home was stressful. I got home as quickly as possible and crashed on the sofa.” Jay, London
RELAXATION
Be it pampering at a salon, a yoga class after work, cooking or listening to music, relaxation is about pausing to do the things that make us feel good inside and out.
“I like taking time to have a long relax in the bath – feels cosy being engulfed by the water. Sometimes, I’ll even have a beer.” John, Amsterdam
Higher Energy
FOCUS
When focused, we’re ‘in the zone’ to complete a task like a complicated DIY project, finishing a report or making an important decision with others or alone.
“I was working at my desk. I shut the door as I don’t want to be disturbed. My work needs privacy so I stay in the bedroom.” K. Qin, Shanghai
PLAY
When we play, we’re cutting loose and letting our inner child out. This might be dancing in front of the mirror, play-acting with children or a raucous round of karaoke with friends.
“My husband is an introvert and would never dance in public, but loves boogieing around the lounge with our little boy.” Katherine, London
Privacy isn’t the end goal – its value lies in the benefits it unlocks for us, mentally and physically. 70% of people globally say privacy is important to achieve time and space for activities that enable personal growth.