Nearly half of Americans working from home have signed off early to have a drink, according to a new poll—and 45% of these respondents have admittedly taken the liberty of having an alcoholic drink during the workday.
The survey polled 2,000 nationally-representative adults (approximately 800 of whom are working from home) to examine the habits people have picked up during lockdown and how they plan to deal with them in the new year.
Conducted by OnePoll, the survey found that 53% of those polled have been drinking alcohol more frequently during the pandemic.
In fact, 64% of those who are employed (1,400 respondents) shared that virtual happy hours with coworkers have increased their alcohol intake, and 52% of all respondents said that they’ve felt the need to drink while watching the news this year.
So it’s no surprise that six in 10 said they’ll be trying to drink less in 2021.
Drinking more isn’t the only habit that respondents admit they’d like to change.
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Two in five people shared they’ve been snacking more and eating more comfort foods as quarantine continues – and they’ve been stress-eating an average of three times a week.
Other habits that grew last year include drinking too much caffeine (32%) and staying in one’s pajamas all day (23%).
It’s also no surprise that one in 10 respondents working from home also found it harder and harder to get out of bed during the work week and often overslept.
With so many months of reinforcement, 45% of respondents said they worried they’ll never be able to fall out of these routines.
But, seven in 10 respondents say they plan on starting 2021 with a clean slate to improve their health.
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Some of the top goals for the new year included resolutions to exercise more (53%), eat more fruits and veggies (51%) and plan more meals (36%).
“2020 has been rough, so it’s no surprise alcohol intake has increased,” said Nick Taranto, founder of HOP WTR who invented a non-alcoholic beer and sponsored the survey. “20% of those over 21 said their top goal for 2021 is to drink less alcohol.”
TOP BAD HABITS PICKED UP DURING QUARANTINE
Snacking more throughout the day – 40%
Eating more comfort foods – 39%
Not eating as many fruits and vegetables as they should – 33%
Drinking too much caffeine – 32%
Eating more junk food – 32%
Not eating three meals a day – 31%
Drinking too much alcohol – 26%
Not exercising – 25%
Staying in pajamas all day – 23%
Oversleeping during a work day while working from home – 11%
TOP PLANS TO BE HEALTHIER IN 2021
Exercise regularly – 53%
Eat more fruits and vegetables – 51%
Meal planning – 36%
Regulate their sleep schedule – 35%
Jogging – 33%
Portion control – 29%
Fad diet – 23%
Drink less alcohol – 21%
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“Non-alcoholic Beer”…..what a horrible concept.