A new study reveals that being your own boss might not only offer career freedom but also benefit your heart, particularly for women. Research from UCLA highlights that self-employment correlates with reduced risk factors for heart disease, suggesting a surprising health perk for those who ditch traditional jobs.
The Heart-Health Connection
The 2025 UCLA study, published in BMC Public Health, analyzed data from 19,400 working adults via the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2018). It found self-employed women had notably lower rates of key heart disease risk factors: obesity dropped by 7.4 percentage points, physical inactivity by 7 points, and poor sleep by 9.4 points compared to women in traditional jobs. White men also saw gains, with poor diet decreasing by 6.5 points and high blood pressure by 5.7 points. However, men of color didn’t experience similar benefits.
Why the Difference?
Experts attribute the edge for women to greater autonomy. “Self-employment often means flexible schedules, letting women prioritize exercise, sleep, and healthy eating,” said lead researcher Dr. Kimberly Narain, an assistant professor at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. This control seems to curb cardiovascular risks, a major concern since heart disease kills someone in the U.S. every 33 seconds, per the CDC. For men of color, the lack of improvement may stem from unique challenges—limited funding, fewer mentors, and financial stress in business ventures.
Not a Universal Fix
The study isn’t without limits. It captures a snapshot, not a cause-and-effect link, so self-employment doesn’t guarantee better health. Still, the findings suggest work environment matters. Women, both white and of color, reaped heart-health benefits, while outcomes varied for men by race and ethnicity.
Takeaways for All
For those eyeing a side hustle or full self-employment, this hints at a health bonus alongside flexibility. Even in traditional roles, pushing for more autonomy, focusing on outcomes over hours, could mirror these gains. Employers, too, might boost worker well-being by offering true flextime, potentially cutting heart disease risk while lifting productivity.
A Heartfelt Case
Heart disease remains the top killer of U.S. women, yet it’s often preventable. This study underscores how work style can shape health, especially for women striking out on their own. Your heart might just thank you for taking the leap.