Running a business comes with stress, frustration, and constant challenges, yet an overwhelming 91% of small-business owners say they’re happy with their jobs, according to a survey of 1,290 business owners by employee scheduling software maker Homebase. Who are these content entrepreneurs, and what’s behind their happiness?
It’s not the typical story we hear about small businesses. The National Federation of Independent Businesses reports that small-business optimism has remained below average for 29 consecutive months, with uncertainty at its highest since 2020. Many owners struggle to pay rent, accumulate credit card debt, and face fears of an economic downturn.
My clients echo these challenges. They face employees who don’t show up, suppliers who delay shipments, and customers who haggle over prices or miss payments. Accountants remind them of tax bills they can barely cover after investing heavily in inventory. From health insurance and logistics costs to commissions and levies, expenses pile up quickly. Long hours in dusty workshops or demanding industrial settings are the norm. Competitors often amplify the pressure, fueling tension in an already challenging landscape.
Yet, despite these hurdles, most small-business owners wouldn’t trade their jobs for anything. Complaints aside, they love running their businesses and have little desire to return to working for someone else. Why? Because happiness is relative—and for them, it’s about control.
Are they happy because they’re “changing the world” or “pursuing their passion”? Not necessarily. Many aren’t the stereotypical “entrepreneurs” or startup dreamers. Instead, they’re making sandwiches, fixing engines, mowing lawns, installing pipes, or driving trucks. Some didn’t choose this path out of luxury but out of necessity—and they’re still content.
Is money the reason for their satisfaction? Not at all. The average small-business owner earns about $100,000 annually, which is significantly less than what a corporate executive could make with far fewer financial uncertainties like health insurance or retirement savings. Yet, they’re still happy.
The answer lies in control. Small-business owners have autonomy over their work, decisions, and outcomes. Even amidst the chaos and challenges, the ability to steer their own ship outweighs the headaches that come with it. For them, control is worth it—and that’s why they’re happy.
