A recent study has found that an increasing number of women are opening their own businesses and feeling more fulfilled both professionally and personally compared to those working traditional 9-5 jobs. The survey of 500 female small business owners and 500 aspiring female entrepreneurs revealed that 91% of current owners feel fulfilled in their professional lives, compared to just 55% of those who haven’t yet made the leap. This sense of fulfillment extends into personal lives as well, with 87% of current business owners feeling fulfilled personally, in contrast to 78% of aspiring owners.
Over the next decade, 80% of those surveyed anticipate seeing even more women at the helm of businesses. Among current business owners, 58% started their ventures within the past six years, and 89% of aspiring entrepreneurs plan to start their own businesses in the next five years. Those who have already made the switch report feeling happier (58%), more confident (54%), and more empowered (54%) than in their previous roles.
Nearly all respondents (90%) believe it is crucial for the next generation of children to see female business owners in their communities. The desire for more freedom prompted 62% to become business owners, particularly among those with children under 18 years old. Before starting their businesses, only 51% felt able to pursue their passions or take time off work.
Women seek fulfillment through ownership
After launching their businesses, 93% found the freedom they were seeking. Other motivations for starting a business include wanting to create a better world for future generations (26%) and feeling stuck in prior jobs (23%).
Aspiring female entrepreneurs echo these motivations, with 64% wanting to be their own boss, 38% needing a more flexible schedule, and 35% seeking a better work-life balance. While there are significant benefits, the path to business ownership is not without challenges. Current business owners believe that a better understanding of the small business landscape (30%), support from other small business owners (26%), and backing from family and friends (25%) would have made their journey smoother.
Over half (53%) mentioned that additional funds or a safety net would have been beneficial. Aspiring entrepreneurs also have concerns, including building a customer base (47%), getting the word out about their business (37%), handling unforeseen challenges (33%), and creating a social media presence (29%). The survey was conducted by Talker Research from February 6 to February 13, 2025, and commissioned by Kiddie Academy.
This comprehensive research underscores the growing trend of women pursuing business ownership for both professional and personal fulfillment.
Photo by; Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
