Many people have taken their experience of the pandemic to reflect on life and make positive changes. A survey has found that three in five people now question what they consider to be important in life, while half feel their priorities have changed3.

Two in five respondents said the pandemic had encouraged them to build up more long-term savings. However, one in four now feel less comfortable about coping with unforeseen events than they did before the pandemic.

In your 30s or 40s? Consider your position

Although 35 to 44-year-olds are the largest age group to face disruption to their retirement plans, they are also the most likely to feel compelled to save more because of the pandemic (54%).

Let’s get this show on the road

So many of us have put our lives on hold – cancelling or suspending planned life events. For example, 16% put off starting a new job, 13% postponed a house purchase, 12% reconsidered plans for setting up a new business, 10% stopped trying for a baby and 10% delayed a wedding.

Year of the squeeze

Hailed the ‘year of the squeeze,’ outgoings are increasing due to a higher energy price cap and a rise in National Insurance Contributions, and inflation is affecting real wage growth. The number of households ‘just about managing’ (JAM) is set to grow. However the pandemic has affected you; we can help refocus your goals and get your plans moving again – so you are well equipped to take control of your financial future.

3 Aviva, Nov 2021