Here at Sogolytics, we’re sort of crazy about feedback — who knew 😉 — and the human experience fascinates us the most. How we interact, how we can make experiences better, and how we can help shape meaningful decisions that matter — that’s kind of our favorite.
It’s summertime, when we look forward to cookouts and amusements parks, beaches and waves, or maybe a good book and a quiet night under the stars. But let’s be real: While many of us think about those things, we don’t always get around to actually doing them.
So, we started thinking: What about a Life Experience Survey to help people examine their own life experiences — as actual humans? Now that sounds really interesting.
Step right up!
Hello! I’m LeTeisha, and today I’m your survey administrator. Please take a moment to answer the following questions about your life experience (I won’t judge you if you talk out loud!). Your responses will help you gain insight into various aspects of your life and well-being.
There are no right or wrong answers; simply provide your honest opinions because this is only for you. Thank you for your participation!
1. What is your overall level of satisfaction with your life?
When you take a moment to think and look around, are you satisfied? In 2020, the U.S. had a record-high personal satisfaction of 90%; it declined to 82% shortly after that.
Satisfaction doesn’t mean you have to be done achieving or striving for anything. On the contrary, you really never stop learning or evolving! But take a look at where you are right now. Are you satisfied with how things have turned out thus far?
As customers, we’re familiar with customer satisfaction surveys and companies wanting to know if they’ve done well enough. As employees, we are similarly comfortable with employee engagement or 360 feedback assessments. Now, here’s a survey just for you.
Make sure you get used to checking in on how you have been treating you as well.
2. How would you rate your physical health on a scale of 1 to 10?
Hurray for summer! Physical health and wellness are about having a long life and living to the fullest. It’s not about trying to stay up with punishing trends that emotionally drain you.
Remember that.
Take care of yourself so that long into the future, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor! This is an excellent time of the year to join in on challenges or work on taking better care of yourself. Here are some ideas:
3. How would you rate your mental and emotional well-being on a scale of 1 to 10?
In recent years, there’s been a reduction in the stigma associated with mental health discussions, in both personal and professional environments. There are more resources available for help. You don’t have to have a diagnosis to get support.
Young adults in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 25 have the highest rate of experiencing mental health concerns at 33.7% compared to adults between 26 and 49 (28.1%) and those aged 50+ (15%) (NIMH).
Sometimes you can be tired. Sometimes you need a break. Or maybe you need a #MeDay. Doing it all is okay because you will always be more important than any career. Take the time to keep yourself grounded and happy because you deserve it!
4. How often do you engage in activities that bring you joy or fulfillment?
Oof, this one is hard. We can enjoy watching TV or heading to the movies. I love to twirl on the dance floor or cook a good meal for friends. A lot of the time, however, our hobbies fall away. We say things like “I don’t have time” or “Maybe later, I’m tired” more than we realize.
Filling yourself up with hobbies and interests gives you a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment that isn’t tied to productivity or performance.
5. Do you feel a sense of purpose and meaning in your life?
No matter who you are or where you come from, we all have a purpose and a reason for being here. Big or small, magnificent or mundane, we have a place. Understanding that can give you confidence and security as you progress through life.
6. How satisfied are you with your relationships (e.g., family, friends, romantic)?
Our social groups and interactions are important. We’ve seen major changes in the way technology has impacted how we communicate in a post-COVID world. Our personal groups and tribes are a part of everything we do. They have great psychological, emotional, mental, and developmental effects on us.
How well these relationships are going in your life can significantly influence your life experience.
7. How often do you experience stress or anxiety in your daily life?
Stress isn’t all bad. There is, well, stress, distress, and eustress—which is considered beneficial! But it would be best if you had a good balance of it all without it causing anxieties or decreasing your function and acuity.
8. How well do you manage your work-life balance?
The days of working until you could barely see straight are a thing of the past… right? Today, most employees demand a work-life balance that reflects that there’s more to life than work. Make sure you’re not burning the candle at both ends, the midnight oil, and… you get the point.
Take time to enjoy the small things in life (and maybe some of the big things, too). Don’t forget bucket lists; don’t wait until later to check them off.
9. How satisfied are you with your financial situation?
Financial wellness is critical to your overall health and wellness. Taking the time to get to financial freedom can help you feel more liberated and secure. Don’t neglect it in your life experience.
10. Do you feel a sense of accomplishment in your personal and professional life?
This is important. Having things to pat yourself on the back about or feel joy in being part of can create deep psychological memories that enhance satisfaction and experience. We see this all around: Employees look for employers who recognize them regularly and customers enjoy rewards and loyalty programs.
Positive reinforcement is a human need in many ways, and finding personal and professional aspects to be proud of can lead to greater satisfaction.
BONUS: How would you rate your overall life experience so far?
Here is the big question. Thinking of all the other answers, how would you rate your overall life experience? Is it wonderful, amazing, or exhilarating? Are there areas you can mark for improvement?
No matter what, it’s not over yet, and you could always make it better.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Your responses are valuable and will contribute to your understanding of your life experiences. We hope that you are giving yourself the best life experience possible!
Found this insightful and want to share a survey of your own? Start off with a free trial, using the above questions to create your own!
