1 in 5 (18%) of employed adults intend to become their own boss in the next 12 months, with nearly half of working Brits also considering a career change to get a better work-life balance (43%) or better pay (47%).
The AA Driving School research also shows many (60%) people are worried the cost-of-living crisis may impact these ambitions. A determined 43% are putting a better work-life balance before money when considering their career change, with more than one third (37%) prioritising finding a job that fits in better with their own lives.
Topping the nations’ new job wish list includes:
- A better paying job – 47%
- A better work life balance – 43%
- A change from a job they are sick of – 43%
- A job that suits their life commitments – 37%
- Better workplace benefits – 36%
- Wanting to do something in line with their passion – 26%
- More flexibility in their career – 35%
- Wanting to be their own boss – 28%
Being Your Own Boss
To prepare for their ideal career change, 42% of Brits looking for a career change are updating their CV and 38% are actively applying for jobs. AA Driving School research found that among those seeking a career change, the top reasons include wanting to choose their own working hours (54%) not being managed by other people (33%) and turning a hobby into a career (29%).
A further 28% prefer the idea of working alone than in a team, and 35% want to have more say in important workplace decisions. Among employed Brits looking to become their own boss, the average expected age to achieve this goal is 45.2 years old.
More than two-thirds (67%) of Brits consider the cost-of-living crisis to be a driving force for them wanting more from their career.
New Year, New Career
More than a third (38%) of employed people in the UK feel not achieving their career goals could damage their mental health, while 37% feel it could have a detrimental impact on their family life.
Whilst 18% of people are unsure when they will make their desired career changes, 14% are planning to make them within the next two months and 44% expect to make a change in the second half of 2023.
Leading Psychologist Honey Langcaster-James comments on UK workers and motivations behind career changes: s “After such a challenging few years, so many Brits appear to be taking stock and reflecting on what they actually want their future and their typical working day to look like.
“Psychological studies have shown that the more autonomy people have when it comes to their work, the more they can actually handle in terms of work demands so it’s understandable that so many are considering becoming their own boss, it holds the potential for less stress, better work life balance and potentially higher overall rewards.”
Putting you in the driving seat, literally
Becoming a driving instructor with the AA Driving School allows you to be your own boss, have the freedom to choose your own working hours and set your own lesson prices.
With the AA Driving School, trainees can choose between a premium 1-2-1 training programme or a fast-track VR training course. Trainees can start earning in as little as 12 weeks* (subject to DVSA availability), while they complete the final stage of their training.
Mark Born, Head of the AA Driving School Instructor Training Academy said: “Our trainees come from all walks of life, but one thing they have in common is the desire to be their own boss and help shape the next generation of drivers. Teaching people a life skill is hugely fulfilling and coupled with the flexibility our franchises offer give people a long-term, rewarding career.
“The last couple of years have made many people reassess their work-life balance and with a new year starting, it’s a great time to put some of those thoughts into action. If you’re interested in becoming a driving instructor, take a look at our website.”
For more information on how to become an AA Driving Instructor, please visit: Driving Instructor Training Courses | AA Driving School (theaa.com)
