In Russia, it is common for people to voice wishes as the year closes. A recent survey found that 73% of participants express a New Year wish for themselves and loved ones to be healthy in the coming year. The most frequently cited hopes among respondents include good health for family and friends (76%), a year without disasters (28%), and happiness for those they care about (44%). The poll also highlighted some lighter, almost whimsical desires, such as stumbling upon a bag of money. This snapshot of hopes was reported by RT with reference to data gathered by the Rabota.ru service.
As the calendar turns to January, many individuals in Russia also set intentions about matters of the heart. About one in five people (21%) hope to meet or deepen a romance in the new year, while roughly the same share (20%) dream of acquiring a new home, a summer residence, or a vehicle. The same proportion of respondents indicated a general desire to discover what they are seeking in life. Around 19% mentioned dreaming of a dream trip, and 16% hoped for a windfall such as a bag containing one million rubles.
In addition, a small portion of participants looked ahead to practical changes in 2024. Approximately 6% planned to work remotely for the majority of the year, and 3% anticipated keeping a pet as part of their future lifestyle.
Across all regions of Russia, the study engaged more than 3,600 adult participants, providing a broad view of popular hopes and aspirations tied to the New Year period.
Beyond personal wishes, the survey noted that many Russians also consider money to be a coveted gift for the New Year. This sentiment appeared consistently among the respondents, and the list of preferred gifts extended to travel opportunities, technology and electronics, and concert tickets.
Earlier analyses have pointed to the same seasonal pattern: people commonly experience a mix of practical aims and aspirational desires as the year ends, along with a focus on well-being, relationships, and small joys that brighten the winter season.