Over half of self-employed workers skip sick days

With the freelance workforce in games growing, it’s worth highlighting a new report that’s been published about the increasing challenge of overworking amongst the self-employed in the UK.

The study, by small business insurance specialist Market Direct, explores the increasing issue of burnout whilst running a small business. It asked 1,000 UK small business owners and sole traders to share their experience on work-life balance and the hidden costs of being their own boss.

Over half (57%) of respondents admitted to working through an illness, due to the fear of losing income or clients. Nearly a third (32%) of respondents advised that they rarely took sick days, with one in ten stating that they never take a sick day at all. The pressure to keep working extends beyond sick leave, as 44% admitted to regularly skipping medical appointments, self-care, or exercise because of workload demands.

The challenge of being ‘always-on’

A common theme across all small business owners was the pressure of being ‘always-on’, as 52% of respondents advised that they found it difficult to switch off from work at the end of the day. This seems to be fuelled by demand, as 40% of respondents stated that their clients often expected them to be reachable outside their normal hours.

This way of working was found to impact not only regular downtime, but also holidays. Four in ten respondents reported cancelling or cutting holidays short due to work commitments, and one in six advised that they haven’t taken a full week off from running their business in over a year, or at all since starting the business. With holidays being crucial for rest and recovery, it’s no surprise that 40% revealed that they felt their work schedule had negatively impacted their health or wellbeing.

Burnout is reaching critical levels among the self-employed – but most are happier than they were in traditional employment

The study highlights that burnout among the self-employed has become a common concern, stemming from overworking and managing all aspects of a business on their own. Four in ten respondents advised they experienced burnout while running their business, and over a third (37%) have even considered giving up their businesses altogether due to stress and exhaustion.

But despite the pressures, stress and required sacrifices, most self-employed workers remained deeply committed to the path they’ve chosen and say they are ultimately happier. An overwhelming 75% of respondents stated that they enjoyed being their own boss, with 7 in 10 advising they found it more rewarding than traditional employment, and that self-employment provides them with better flexibility.

Rob Rees, Divisional Director at Markel Direct, said: “Small businesses remain the backbone of the UK economy, and our study showcases the resilience and passion of the self-employed nationwide. While burnout and the demands of running a business present real challenges, most remain committed to their choice – finding greater fulfilment and happiness working for themselves.”

Expert strategies to help prevent burnout in 2026

Dr Katie Barge, a Chartered Psychologist, advises that burnout isn’t always easy to identify. She says: “Although it comes with a lot of perks, such as more flexibility, self-employment often also comes with financial uncertainty, blurred work-life boundaries, and a strong sense of personal responsibility for outcomes. These constant pressures, particularly when handled alone, create sustained cognitive and emotional load, which increases vulnerability to exhaustion and disengagement.”

To help self-employed workers manage stress levels and prevent burnout, Dr Katie Barge recommends the following strategies:

Establish fixed working hours and protect them. You can do this by ensuring the workday has a clear start and finish, make sure this is communicated to clients.
Take structured breaks throughout the day to prevent cognitive overload and maintain focus. Make sure you don’t skip lunch and aim to include other 10–15-minute breaks either side too to give yourself space away from work, even if it is just to grab a hot drink.
Schedule regular restorative activity, whether that is exercise, time outdoors, mindfulness, or creative hobbies.