Ipsos Predictions 2026: Personal Well-being and Relationship Top Thais' New Year Agendas
The Ipsos Predictions 2026 report provides a summary of Thai public opinion regarding the previous year, expectations for 2026, and personal resolutions. The data reveals a decisive shift in public mood, with high personal hopes now paired with an increased belief in a more optimistic national future. This surge in optimism comes alongside strong commitments to personal health and well-being in the new year.
Reflecting on 2025
The public reflection on 2025 shows that a majority of Thais viewed the year negatively for both their personal lives and the country, a more negative outlook compared to the global average across 30 countries:
- 57% of Thais stated that 2025 was a bad year for them and their family, a decrease of 2 percentage points (pp) since the previous year.
- 74% of Thais thought 2025 was a bad year for Thailand as a country. This represents a 9pp increase from the last survey and is a higher percentage than the 30-country global average of 66%.
Outlook for 2026
Despite the negative reflection on 2025, Thais exhibit strong resilience. Crucially, personal optimism remains exceptionally high, and the outlook for the national sentiment has seen a dramatic improvement:
- An impressive 86% of Thais are optimistic that 2026 will be a better year for them than 2025 was, an increase of 7pp since last year.
- The belief that people in Thailand will start to feel more optimistic about the future has soared to 70%, up 4pp since last year. This strong majority signals a major turnaround in confidence about Thailand's long-term trajectory.
Plans for the New Year
Thai respondents reported high levels of agreement regarding several personal plans for the new year. The highest percentages were recorded for family connections and physical well-being:
- Spend more time with family and friends 85%
- Exercise more than last year 82%
- Spend more time on my appearance 82%
- Watch the soccer World Cup 67%
- Use social media less 35%
The figures show high and consistent commitment to self-improvement. Personal relationships remain the top priority, with over 8 in 10 Thais planning to spend more time with loved ones. Commitment to health and fitness is also a major focus, while an equal number (82%) also plan to spend more time on their appearance.
