Workforce Study: Is Going Independent the Secret to Getting More Out of Life?

Independent workers report greater success at leading a fulfilling life, 61% versus 54% for traditional workers

ASHBURN, VA – January 31, 2023 –While the world has seemed in a never ending state of flux, life goals for US workers are surprisingly familiar, according to a new study from MBO Partners®. The Life Goals study, released today, shows that family time, leading a fulfilling life, and getting the most out of life are most important for traditional workers and independent workers. However, when it comes to meeting those goals, there are differences between independent and traditional workers. Independent workers outperform other workers in many categories but when it comes to being on track for retirement, almost half of workers report being successful compared to 41% of independent workers.

“Our State of Independence has found that independents tend to be happier and healthier than their traditionally employed counterparts, but with this new look at Life Goals, it proves that going independent is better for one’s life overall,” said Miles Everson, CEO, MBO Partners. “The Great Realization is unequivocally here, and it’s time for enterprises to really get serious about considering independent professionals in their workforce strategic planning.”

The past few years broadly reset many people’s life clocks, and, as a result, better work-life balance, the ability to pursue passions, and even health and wellness are taking center stage as top priorities.

The Life Goals research shows that US workers’ top three stated life goals are: spending enough time with their family, leading a fulfilling life, and getting the most out of life. Independent workers report greater success at spending enough time with their family, 63% versus 55% for traditional workers; leading a fulfilling life, 61% versus 54% for traditional workers and getting the most out of life, 57% compared to 52% of traditional workers.

As companies grapple with quiet quitting, return to office and loud layoffs, the Life Goals study delivers insight into what matters to workers beyond benefits and compensation. The top 3 goals have an underlying foundation of time. Companies can support employees’ life goals with work policies that give them time to spend with family, pursue passions and get the most out of life. This may mean modifying company culture around off-hours work and communication, adopting flexible schedules, or instituting digital nomad policies.

To obtain a copy of the full Life Goals research brief, please visit https://www.mbopartners.com/state-of-independence/life-goals-report/.

About MBO Partners®​

MBO Partners is a direct sourcing platform that enables enterprises and independents to work efficiently together. Its unmatched experience and industry leadership enable it to operate on the forefront of the independent economy and consistently advance the next way of working.

For more information, visit​ ​mbopartners.com.

​Media Contact

Karen Swim
Words for Hire LLC

pr@mbopartners.com