A new study by Markel Direct, the specialist insurer of small businesses, has revealed the growing challenge of overworking among the self-employed in the UK, with the East Midlands named as one of the regions with the highest levels of burnout.
The study, which explores the increasing issue of burnout whilst running a small business, 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.
The East Midlands was found to have the second highest level of burnout among self-employed workers, with half of respondents from the region stating that they have experienced burnout while running their own business. Scotland was in first place, with 54% of self-employed workers experiencing burnout, whilst the South East came in third with 49%.
The challenge of being ‘always-on’
A common theme across all UK regions 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.
UK regions with the highest self-employed burnout rates
| UK region | % of self-employed that have experienced burnout |
| Scotland | 54% |
| East Midlands | 50% |
| South East | 49% |
| East of England | 48% |
| South West | 39% |
| North West | 39% |
| North East | 38% |
| Northern Ireland | 38% |
| Greater London | 36% |
| Wales | 33% |
| West Midlands | 32% |
| Yorkshire and The Humber | 29% |
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. 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 are the backbone of the UK, and our study highlights the drive and dedication of the self-employed across the country. Despite the challenges of burnout and the pressures of running a business, the majority remain deeply committed to their chosen path and are ultimately happier working for themselves.”
Expert strategies to help prevent burnout in 2026
Dr Katie Barge, Chartered Psychologist, advises that burnout isn’t always easy to identify. She says: “Some of the key warning signs of someone on the path to or experiencing burnout include persistent fatigue, irritability, reduced concentration, loss of enthusiasm for tasks that once felt engaging, and an increasing detachment from work. They may also experience a difficulty in switching off, disrupted sleep, and a sense of dread at the start of the day.”
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.
To read the full study, and for more tips on reducing burnout, visit the Markel Direct website.
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