Americans spend nearly 2.4 hours per day dreamscrolling, considering their dream purchases or items they would like to own in the future, with 71% viewing this time as well spent since it motivates them to reach their financial goals. The recent poll conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Empower, a financial services company, found that more than two in five adults spend more time dreamscrolling during periods of economic uncertainty, totaling approximately 873 hours or 36 days each year spent scrolling. Half of the respondents engage in dreamscrolling while at work, with one in five spending between three and four hours multitasking while on the job.
The survey showed that Gen Zers spend over three hours per day dreamscrolling, while boomers spend the least time, around an hour. Respondents believe that looking at dream purchases helps them be smarter with their money, avoid unplanned purchases or debt, and plan better to achieve their financial goals. Nearly 70% see dreamscrolling as an investment in themselves and a way to envision what they want in life, with 42% regularly spending time picturing their ideal retirement. Commonly dreamscrolled items include homes, vacations, beauty products, and items for pets.
More than half of respondents have items saved for future purchases, estimating that the total cost to afford everything would be around $86,593.40. Nearly half of Americans are spending more time dreamscrolling than in previous years, and 56% plan to buy something on their dream list before the year ends, though 23% feel they may never be able to afford most items on their list. While 65% are optimistic they will eventually be able to purchase everything they desire, 47% believe working with a financial professional would help them achieve those goals.
Owning their dream purchases would make over half of respondents feel more financially secure, and 34% believe they have purchased less on their dream list than they should have at their age, with millennials feeling the most behind. Economic factors that may hinder some respondents include rising prices, inability to save, and increasing debt. Despite this, dreamscrolling has positively impacted participants’ money habits, with nearly a quarter indicating that they better understand their financial goals as a result.
Overall, the survey’s findings highlight the time and effort Americans dedicate to dreamscrolling, as well as the financial benefits and impact it has on their spending habits. The study provides insight into how dreamscrolling influences individuals’ perceptions of money management, motivates them to achieve financial goals, and serves as a tool for envisioning their ideal future. The results suggest that while dreamscrolling can have positive effects on financial awareness and planning, it is essential for individuals to balance their aspirations with realistic financial strategies to ensure long-term success.
