The nation is overwhelmingly emerging from the COVID pandemic with renewed hopefulness and a focus on achieving personal goals, according to new research.

The Sense of Us Report, issued annually by ING Bank, reveals 78 per cent of Aussies feel positive and 19 per cent consider themselves extremely positive about the year ahead.

Of more the than 2300 adults polled in March, 95 per cent said they'd set fresh goals for 2022, while 13 per cent went as far to say that they were confident absolutely nothing would stop them from realising them.

Unsurprisingly, the number one ambition is to save money (53 per cent), followed by spending extra time with friends and family (39 per cent), getting fitter (38 per cent) and travelling (37 per cent).

One in five say they have became closer to loved ones over the past year and are discovering new ways to connect with them.

Friendships have also been put into perspective, with 20 per cent saying they appreciate friends more now but a quarter admitting they have grown apart from certain friends.

More than half those surveyed consider their partner the most important thing in their life, while three in 10 say their pets are and 28 per cent, their siblings.

Meanwhile, nearly two thirds of respondents have set specific financial goals for 2022, including saving money (53 per cent), buying a house (14 per cent) and starting a side hustle or business (11 per cent).

Some 31 per cent just want to have more fun, nine per cent are keen to find love and nine per cent want to start a new hobby.

On a lighter note, half apparently prefer licking to biting ice blocks, 70 per cent fold toilet paper rather than scrunch it, six in 10 make their bed every morning and 51 per cent admit using emojis in work emails.

"Despite everything that's happened over the last two years, people are optimistic and ready to make the most of the year ahead," said ING spokesman Andras Hamori.

"Aussies are choosing to jump into 2022 with both feet. They're saving for the things they want, prioritising time with family and friends and are determined to let nothing get in their way."

Australian Associated Press