We all dream of owning a business, being our own boss, replying to emails in pyjamas, and taking a break whenever needed. While it might sound dreamy, there is more to it. Turns out, self-employment might actually be good for your heart. New research published in BMC Public Health suggests that how you earn your living could affect how long you live. Specifically, the study zooms in on women and the surprising cardiovascular perks of being self-employed.
The research team surveyed nearly 19,400 adults who took part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The researchers examined classic cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure, bad cholesterol, smoking habits, poor diet, lack of exercise, and not sleeping enough.
The findings
In simple terms, self-employed women were generally doing better on several heart-health fronts than their salaried counterparts. From lower obesity rates, better sleep, and less physical inactivity to a more balanced diet.
White women who worked for themselves had a 7.4 percent lower risk of obesity, were 7 percent less likely to be physically inactive, and had a 9.4 percent reduced chance of getting inadequate sleep. Women of colour also fared well, with a 6.7 percent lower chance of a poor diet, 7.3 percent reduced inactivity, and an 8.1 percent improvement in sleep quality. The effect was there for self-employed white men too, but not as pronounced.
However, here is a quick reality check: this study found associations, not causation. In other words, being self-employed is not a magical ticket to heart health; it is more complicated than that.
Still, the pattern is worth thinking about.
Here are a few possible reasons:
Autonomy reduces stress: Choosing your own schedule and workload can help lower chronic stress levels, which is a known contributor to heart disease.
Flexible time means more movement: Without rigid office hours, people may be more likely to fit in exercise or simply avoid long periods of sitting.
More control over diet: When you are not eating at your desk or grabbing takeaway between meetings, you can make healthier food choices.
Sleep quality improves: No commute, no never-ending meetings, and no one stealing your lunch.
Mental health boost: Working for yourself may provide a stronger sense of purpose or satisfaction, which in turn supports better cardiovascular health.
