New research suggests UK SME bosses often work through illness. Image courtesy of: sxc.hu
New research from health firm
Bupa reveals the extent of dedication among UK bosses.
Two out of five small business owners continue to work from their sick beds when under the weather at home.
The study of 250 business owners by the healthcare firm revealed that a third believed their company would collapse if they took time off.
Bupa said the findings showed that a "significant proportion" of bosses were risking burnout and ill health by continuing to work while they were ill.
Tony Wood, sales and marketing director at Bupa, said: "Small business bosses are real troupers; they are totally committed to running their firms in sickness as well as health.
"However they need to think about how to take care of their health needs and those of their staff, as working through sickness isn't a long-term solution for anyone."
Delegating successfully is a significant challenge for business owners, particularly those who have built their companies from scratch and feel intense personal investment in the firm’s success.
Continuing to work when ill not only delays recovery but may also lead to sub-par performance due to difficulties concentrating and sickness-related stress.