The poll, of 2,000 adults, found two in five “consciously limit” themselves in life, through fear of being criticised when doing things more freely.
And over half (56 percent) say they feel more alive when they push themselves out of their comfort zone – but are often too scared to take the leap.
Pavan Chandra from Peperami, which commissioned the research as part of its “We All Go A Bit Peperami” campaign to encourage spontaneity, said: “We as a nation are traditionally known as being a bit stiff and reserved.
“However, if everyone went outside of their comfort zone once in a while, they’ll start seeing the fun and exciting side of life.”
It also emerged nearly half of adults (47 percent) would like to step outside of their comfort zone more often – but 43 percent don’t have the confidence to do so.
And one in three (34 percent) would worry what other people would think if they were to be a bit more adventurous.
But 43 percent hold so much of themselves back, they think others would be shocked to learn their true personality.
Those surveyed, via OnePoll, believe friends would most commonly describe them as caring, kind, or reserved – with the least selected traits being wild, intense, or loud.
And when it came to adults stepping out of their comfort zone, on average they try to do this seven times a week – leaving them feeling happy, free, or excited as a result.
However, while 62 percent believe everyone should be able to feel like their most express self without judgement, one in four (24 percent) feel judged on a daily basis.
Trying something new, visiting a new place, or doing something fun that makes you laugh, were the things that most encouraged people to break out of the ordinary in everyday life.
Pavan Chandra, for Peperami, added: “So many people are sticking within their typical routine and, as the research revealed, lots reckon those closest to them would be shocked to see them doing something they wouldn’t normally do.
“We don’t think this is right, and want to encourage people to let go of their shyness and do what they want more freely, without embarrassment.”
To encourage the nation to break boundaries and have a moment of spontaneous joy, YouTuber Yung Filly, a new brand ambassador for the snack creators, is encouraging his close friends to let go of their inhibitions in a three-part video series, at @peperamitv via social channels.
TOP 10 THINGS ADULTS WISH THEY COULD DO FREELY IN PUBLIC:
- Compliment a stranger
- Go to the cinema alone
- Walk down the street singing loudly
- Tell someone you love them
- Listen to something without headphones
- Fart or burp loudly
- Walk barefoot
- Do yoga stretches in the park
- Adjust your underwear
- Dance in the street
