Most common excuses Brits use to avoid socialising exposed

A study, of 2,000 adults, has revealed the lengths some people take to get out of commitments. From saying they’re ill, having to work late and simply not having the time, there are plenty of reasons.

Others claim transport issues, poor weather or an ill child is preventing them from attending. But while 59 per cent claim they are often too tired to meet up with friends after work, 66 per cent think it’s important to have a good work life balance.

To ensure they stick to this work life balance, one in 10 prefer getting a taxi to events after work, with only four per cent opting for the tube. TV life coach, Anna Williamson, who teamed with FREENOW UK, said: “I urge people to get out of work on time and seize those precious hours in the evening to do something that makes them feel good.

"There will always be barriers and easy-to-make excuses but the more we overcome these, the better. Personally, my anxiety and panic on public transport can stop me from venturing into London to catch up with friends.

"I overcome this by always having my cab pre-booked in advance which gives me peace of mind and a convenient way to travel. Finding strategies to navigate around these barriers can make a significant difference in our ability to enjoy life and do the things we enjoy."

The study also found social gatherings such as parties or dinners with friends (47 per cent), work events (36 per cent) and family gatherings (26 per cent) are among the plans people are most likely to turn down. But, 24 per cent can be left feeling guilty after using an excuse to get out of a social situation and 14 per cent say cancelling plans can lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Top excuses Brits make to get out of social situations:

1. Feeling unwell

2. A family commitment

3. Tiredness

4. A prior engagement they can’t miss

5. Trying to save money

6. An early start the following date

7. Just don’t feel like attending

8. Too much work to do

9. A lack of time

10. Needing to work late

11. An important appointment or errand

12. Recovering from a recent illness

13. Poor weather conditions

14. Visitors or guests at home

15. Double-booking themselves

16. Transport issues

17. They forgot about the event

18. Lack of convenient transport options/routes

19. A drained social battery

20. An ill child

Although 29 per cent admitted that while they dread social events in the lead up to them, they usually end up enjoying themselves when they actually get there. Despite many throwing around excuses to get themselves out of a social situation, 41 per cent would be upset if the shoe were on the other foot.

It also emerged that 30 per cent of people socialise with friends at least once a week and 65 per cent do at least once a month, while only 22 per cent of people see their friends less than once a month. More than a quarter (28 per cent) blame this on spending most of their time at work, while 36 per cent will work late for a few days a week or more.