Good news for Generation Y who love freedom and dislike being confined by rules! Research from two leading universities in England, the University of Sheffield and the University of Exeter, confirms that being your own boss leads to a much happier life compared to being a salaried employee.

         This groundbreaking research, which has shaken the hearts of many salaried workers, is based on a survey of over 5,000 people across various countries including England, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. The survey was conducted through online questionnaires to assess job satisfaction and engagement with work.

         To reduce bias and ensure a diverse representation of professions, the research team distributed the survey across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, education, real estate, insurance, and consulting. They also categorized the sample into four groups based on job levels: non-managerial employees, departmental managers, middle management, and senior executives.

         The results revealed that non-managerial employees scored the lowest in job satisfaction and engagement, which are crucial factors affecting employee enthusiasm.

         

Additionally, it was found that regardless of job level, no one scored as high in satisfaction and engagement as those who are self-employed. This group not only dedicates themselves to their work and bravely faces challenges to achieve greater goals but also experiences double the happiness from having the freedom to think and choose to work on what they love without being confined by roles and responsibilities.

         The question is, should all salaried employees resign to become their own bosses? The answer is, not necessarily, unless you can answer 'yes' to all 9 questions below.

         1. Do you want more flexible working hours? Before you answer 'yes' and move on, remind yourself that being your own boss does not mean fewer working hours; it simply means you regain the power to manage your own time without needing to clock in at 8 AM and clock out at 5 PM.

         2. Do you want to control the game? If you are the type who loves to take charge and want to pursue your brilliant ideas or projects without waiting for anyone's approval, go ahead!

         3. Do you have a passion for what you do? Anyone considering becoming their own boss must be determined enough to withstand obstacles and challenges that may undermine their motivation to reach their goals. If you believe you have the fighting spirit, then fear not!

        4. Are you a good listener? Being your own boss does not mean everyone has to listen to you. On the contrary, you must be a good listener to hear feedback from peers and clients to improve and innovate.

         5. Are you a decisive decision-maker? At this moment, you are the main character in your story. No matter what unexpected events arise, you have no boss or colleagues to share responsibility or consult with; you must be ready to take on the role of a leader who makes decisive decisions.

         6. Do you have a strong support team? Being your own boss comes with many advantages, but sometimes it can also be lonely. You need to ensure that you have friends and family who understand and support you.

         7. Are you disciplined? From now on, no one will tell you what to do or not do, so discipline is crucial.

        8. Are you ready to handle any situation? Nothing in life is certain.

        9. Are you ready to take on every role? The definition of being your own boss means you must be ready to be everything in your little kingdom. Sometimes you may be the boss, but at other times, you need to be the accountant, the legal advisor, the IT specialist, and the sales representative all at once.

Source: www.sheffield.ac.uk, www.forbes.com