Fifty is the age at which individuals in Britain most commonly report feeling in control of their lives, according to a recent survey. The poll, which surveyed 2,000 British adults, identified several indicators of having one's life "sorted out," a state often reached around this age.

Key signs of life control include maintaining an organized car interior, such as not having empty food wrappers on the floor, and knowing the household bin collection day. Additionally, proactively booking dental appointments before pain arises is cited as a marker of being in control. Other indicators involve effective household management, such as recycling consistently, putting clothes away promptly, organizing kitchen cupboards, and drinking adequate water daily.

Markers of a Controlled Life

The survey, commissioned by British Gas, detailed specific behaviors that contribute to this sense of control. Among the top indicators are making regular savings (52%), enjoying one's own company (43%), admitting when wrong (42%), and being able to decline unwanted commitments (37%). Financial organization, such as not paying for unused subscriptions, also features prominently.

Environmental awareness and home management are also linked to feeling in control. Having eco-friendly features like solar panels or a smart meter was cited by 32% of respondents. Knowing one's home energy consumption was noted by 27% of those surveyed. Even having spare batteries readily available (25%) and unpacking immediately after a trip (23%) were identified as signs of an organized life.

Despite these indicators, the survey also revealed that a significant portion of the population feels a lack of control. Nearly a third (30%) of respondents stated they are nowhere near having their lives sorted, and over half (56%) believe that no one ever fully has their life under control.

Shifting Perceptions of Age

The findings suggest a changing perspective on life stages. When asked about when 'old age' begins, different generations provided varying answers. Gen Z (ages 18-29) estimated old age starts at 62.3, while Millennials (30-45) placed it at 62.9. Generation X (46-61) thought it began at 64.4, Boomers (62-80) at 67.3, and the Silent Generation (81+) at 71.8.

This perception contrasts with another recent survey that suggested 69 is the age from which people are considered old. However, experts note that while the idea of