Entrepreneurs Live Longer, Study Finds

New research indicates that entrepreneurship may contribute to a longer lifespan. A study by the Stevens Institute of Technology found that entrepreneurs have a 10% lower risk of premature death.

This benefit appears linked to the high degree of personal autonomy and the opportunity to pursue passionate interests that entrepreneurship offers. These psychological advantages may counteract the significant stress and long hours typically associated with starting and running a business.

The study analyzed over 20 years of data from thousands of Americans aged 50 and older. It revealed that individuals who started their own businesses experienced lower rates of depression and loneliness compared to their employed counterparts.

Interestingly, the longevity advantage was most significant for those who became entrepreneurs out of opportunity, such as filling a market gap or pursuing innovation, rather than financial necessity. Spending more time as an entrepreneur or starting multiple businesses was also associated with a longer lifespan.

Researchers suggest that fostering autonomy, ownership, and a sense of purpose within traditional employment could also improve employee well-being and health outcomes. Creating an entrepreneurial workplace environment may offer the stability of employment alongside the psychological benefits of independence and purpose.