Some Britons prioritise immediate pleasures over long-term financial security
Recent research indicates that many UK adults prioritise immediate pleasures over long-term financial security, with holidays and daily expenses often taking precedence over pension contributions. As the cost of living continues to tighten household budgets, nearly a third of Britons (28%) admit they prefer to enjoy the present rather than plan for the future[1].
However, the data has also identified that managing daily finances remains the top priority for 40% of people, followed by saving for holidays at 31%. In contrast, only 15% state that contributing to their pension is one of their main financial goals. This ‘live for today’ attitude persists despite growing awareness that auto-enrolment alone may not guarantee a comfortable retirement.
Confidence in conflict with reality
While over a third (35%) acknowledge that they might not be saving enough for their later years, almost half (45%) still believe they are on track. This reveals a disconnect between their confidence and the actual situation they face in retirement. A growing sense of uncertainty is also affecting people’s attitudes toward the future.
Almost half of adults (47%) believe that factors beyond their control influence their retirement prospects. A significant 83% perceive the world as less stable than in previous years. More than half (59%) attribute their declining confidence in financial futures to changes in the UK, and 57% to global shifts.
Taking control in uncertain times
Understandably, many people concentrate on covering daily expenses and prioritise a well-earned break. However, even during more difficult times, keeping an eye on the future can make a substantial difference. Regularly setting aside something for later life, no matter how small, can help you stay aligned with your long-term plans without sacrificing what matters today.
Taking manageable, steady actions can create a lasting impact and help you feel more secure. Whether that’s setting a clear budget, building an emergency fund or checking your pension, small steps can improve your overall financial wellbeing and boost your sense of control.
Balancing the present with the future
It’s not about giving up what you enjoy today; it’s about finding a balance that works for both the present and the future. By creating a clear picture of your finances, you can track your income and expenses to understand where your money goes each month. Budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet can help you categorise spending and identify areas for saving without sacrificing all enjoyment.
Dividing your savings into separate pots for different goals, such as holidays, home improvements and retirement, can make saving feel more manageable. Automating transfers into these pots simplifies the process, while watching each one grow provides a sense of achievement. Even if you cannot increase pension contributions at the moment, maintaining consistency is vital, as regular payments benefit from compound growth over time.
Maximising your long-term potential
If your employer offers pension matching, it is essential to take full advantage of it if affordable, as it effectively provides extra money for your retirement fund. It is also beneficial to be aware of government incentives and tax reliefs that can help your savings go further. A simple review of your finances once or twice a year can keep you aligned with your goals and motivate you as you see how much you have progressed.
Ultimately, financial wellbeing doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. Including enjoyment in your budget allows you to live in the moment without guilt, while also ensuring your future is protected. In fact, the contributions you make today could enable you to enjoy more freedom and choices later, whether that’s taking longer trips, travelling more frequently or simply exploring the world on your own terms.
Source data:
[1] Research conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Standard Life in June 2025. In total, 6,000 participants completed the online survey. Participants were aged 18-80 and included working, unemployed and retired individuals. Quotas and weights were used to ensure respondents were representative of the UK general population by age, gender and region.
This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change in the future. A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until age 55 (57 from April 2028 unless the plan has a protected pension age). The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available. Investments can fall as well as rise in value, and you may get back less than you invest.
