Being free might be sold as having endless choice, but new research from RCI Bank[1] suggests people feel most free when they have clear boundaries.
In a world full of uncertainty, more than eight in ten people (82%) said structure and limits actually make them feel free. Rather than feeling restricted, boundaries help people feel confident (87%), happy and relaxed (84%), and optimistic about the future (83%). On the other hand, nearly half (47%) said too much flexibility makes them feel anxious.
The research, commissioned by the bank to coincide with the launch of its new 2 year fixed term cash ISA, reveals that attitudes vary by age. Structure matters most to Baby Boomers and Gen X, with nearly nine in ten Boomers (89%) and more than eight in ten Gen X (85%) saying it helps them feel relaxed, compared to 78% of Gen Z. Younger adults are more likely to say structure and boundaries make them feel anxious (21%) and stressed (22%) versus just 12% of Boomers.
What does ‘being free’ really mean?
When asked what freedom looks like in real life, the impact of money is undeniable. Nearly two thirds (62%) say feeling free means not worrying about money, rising to seven in ten among Boomers and Gen X. Being debt-free (53%), spending without overthinking (43%) and being able to travel freely (42%) also rank highly.
It’s no surprise, then, that planning plays a big role. Three quarters (75%) say planning ahead makes them feel more comfortable, while two thirds (67%) say clear limits create a genuine sense of calm.
And when it comes to money specifically, for one in two people, having a savings plan helps them relax and focus on other areas of life (55%); this increases significantly, to roughly eight in ten of Boomers (83%) and Gen X (78%) who say they feel confident when they have a clear financial plan.
Why a little lock-in can help
However, despite the clear benefits, some people still hesitate to commit when it comes to their money. Over a quarter worry about losing flexibility (27%) or being unable to change their mind (31%).
That hesitation may explain why savings are so often dipped into. Over half of savers (54%) admit they’re tempted to use savings for other purposes, including Gen X (51%). But this rises to almost two thirds of Gen Z (66%). In the past six months alone, 27% of savers have accessed their savings.
Recent spending includes dipping into savings for one or more of the following reasons, to pay bills (28%), treat themselves (26%), cover unexpected home costs (20%), pay off debt (16%) or help their children (15%).
Commenting on the findings, RCI Bank’s Head of Savings, Lewis Elliott-Smith, said:
“Financial freedom can mean different things to different people, and understandably for many this includes being able to access savings when essential costs arise. Our research shows that those who are able to plan ahead, setting clear boundaries around savings can also be helpful. A fixed savings plan may reduce stress, remove temptation and help people feel more in control of their money.”
The research coincides with the launch of RCI Bank’s 2 Year Fixed Cash ISA a tax‑free savings option offering a fixed rate over a fixed term. It may be suitable for savers who don’t see structure as a restriction - giving them certainty about exactly what interest they’ll earn.
To find out more on RCI Bank Cash ISA www.rcibank.co.uk/savings-accounts/2-year-fixed-term-cash-isa-savings
Research conducted by Opinium and commissioned by RCI Bank featuring 2,000 UK adults on the 9th - 13th January 2026
Available to UK residents aged 18 and over. Apply online only. Pay in from £1,000 to £20,000 into the RCI Bank Fixed Term Cash ISA per tax year. You must not exceed the annual ISA allowance across all ISAs you hold. The current annual ISA allowance is £20,000. Transfer in ISA savings up to 14 days from the account opening date, with a maximum account balance of £1m. Interest paid monthly or annually. The tax treatment may be subject to change in the future and depends on your individual circumstances. If you choose to close or make a withdrawal from your Fixed Term Cash ISA after the first 14 days from account opening then you will need to pay an interest charge. Terms and conditions apply
