Marvin Onumonu85% of SME leaders said they would make the same choice to run a business, even after making personal sacrifices, according to a survey from Employment Hero.
94% said they had made sacrifices due to their business.
67% said they sacrificed time for themselves, and 55% said they gave up time with their partner.
Most SME leaders described feeling purpose, fulfilment and pride from running their business.
Kevin Fitzgerald, UK managing director at Employment Hero, said: “This Valentine’s Day, we wanted to shine a light on the real love story driving Britain’s economy – the unwavering commitment of small business owners to their companies and their teams.
“These are people who’ve sacrificed time with loved ones, personal wellbeing and financial security to build something meaningful.
“They’ve weathered one of the toughest years in recent memory, facing rising costs, policy uncertainty and a contracting national labour market.”
Fitzgerald added: “Yet our data shows they haven’t given up. While the broader economy has seen employment fall, SMEs have continued to take risks and invest in people.
“That 85% would do it all again speaks volumes about the resilience and determination of Britain’s small business community.
“Even when it costs time and relationships, the love for their business endures.”
He said: “That’s the kind of commitment worth celebrating and it’s why SMEs remain the beating heart of the UK economy.”
