Business Success Is for the Healthiest: An Analysis of Small-scale Entrepreneurs in Mumbai, Maharashtra

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the current health status of entrepreneurs and its impact on business performance. For the present study, a primary survey was conducted in Mumbai, from February to August 2018. A total sample of 540 self-employed migrants running small-scale business, whose last usual place of residence was different from the place of interviewing and was residing in Mumbai for more than 3 years were interviewed. The health of entrepreneurs was captured by assessing their self-reported health. Health has evolved as a paramount predictor in entrepreneur’s business success. Effects of health are multi-facet on business operations. Entrepreneurs, reporting to experiencing excellent status of health, were found to have higher man hours and working days as compared to relatively bad health. Findings from regression suggests respondents with a fair state of health were less likely to have a higher level of monthly income than respondents with excellent health. The study found a statistically significant association between physical activity, self- reported good health, and monthly income. Small-scale entrepreneurs engaged in the informal labour market often practice sedentary behaviour; henceforth, there is a pressing need to sensitise them to the importance of active physical activity, which shall reduce the risk of developing stress.