Gen Z, millennials say morning debrief more exciting than previous night out: survey

More than half (55%) of Gen Z and millennials say the post-night-out “morning debrief” is more exciting than the night itself.A recent survey of 1,000 Gen Z and 1,000 millennial adults revealed that most (64%) said a debrief is “an absolute must” after any big event, like a vacation, party, or night out on the town.In fact, respondents said a post-event recap with their friends helps them relive their favorite moments (47%), feel more connected to each other (44%), and reflect on what actually happened the night before (40%).Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Holiday Inn Express by IHG, the survey found that the average morning debrief runs for 85 minutes, leaving ample time for the recap-focused activities that define this emerging social and vacation ritual.For 73% of respondents, the morning debrief is more than a quick catch-up.Nearly three in four said debriefing an occasion with friends is a special bonding experience that can’t be replaced with a text or a phone call.And in a tech-reliant world, that preference for in-person connection runs deep.
Seventy-five percent said it is more satisfying talking to and connecting with friends in person than it is virtually, and 67% of respondents said they even hold off on sharing fun or important updates with friends until they can meet with them in person.Psychotherapist Mary McLaughlin, LCSW, explained why connecting and debriefing with friends is important and feels so good, noting that “the morning debrief can serve several purposes.In a way, it extends the experience even after the event itself is over.
It gives everyone a chance to contribute their piece of the story and relive the funniest, most dramatic, or most meaningful moments together.“Psychologically, there’s also something powerful about turning an experience into a shared story.Comparing perspectives, validating each other’s reactions, and building a story together can feel cathartic and strengthen connection.“Sometimes the...