Being your own boss is often seen as the ultimate dream. The ability to set your own schedule, make executive decisions, and steer your business in the direction you envision are certainly appealing aspects of entrepreneurship.
However, a recent study commissioned by virtual landline firm Air Landline suggests that the actuality of managing your own business can be far less glamorous, with significant impacts on mental health, personal relationships, and the capacity to switch off from work.
According to the research 16% of small business owners feel like they’re on 24/7 and this incessant sense of obligation is exacerbated by the pressure to respond promptly to out-of-hours messages.
Half of those surveyed confessed to replying within 30 minutes, if not instantly, to communications received outside conventional working hours.
The majority was also taking calls while having dinner with their family, on the toilet and even at their childrens’s school events. Highlighting just how much the lines between work and private life have blurred.
“Being your own boss sounds fantastic in theory, but the reality is that it often means you’re working even harder,” said a representitive at Air Landline. “You’re not just managing the business, you’re deeply involved in every decision, from the small details to the big picture.”
They mentioned that as a result small businesses owners often find themselves working during hours they should be spending on personal activities and has meant three quarters of those polled are reluctant to take time off, feeling guilty if they do.
One barrier preventing many from establishing boundaries is the fear of missing out – 23% admitted they avoid taking breaks for this very reason. Overall, a significant 20% revealed they haven’t enjoyed a holiday in over five years, while 13% feel physically or mentally exhausted every day.
Over two-fifths of respondents conceded their inability to switch off has adversely affected their relationships with friends or family. However, there is a glimmer of hope as 60% believe altering their work habits could enhance their overall wellbeing.
Proposed solutions include setting fixed communication hours, outsourcing tasks, and adopting tools to better manage workloads.
