In 2026, being a business leader is far from guaranteeing a serene life. A recent study conducted by OpinionWay for Rydge conseil, and revealed by RMC, highlights the growing malaise felt by entrepreneurs. A majority of them, 67%, admit to experiencing negative emotions daily. What challenges do they face and how can they address them?
Key takeaways
- 67% of entrepreneurs feel negative emotions daily, mainly due to the pressure and responsibility of the company’s survival.
- Family concerns, although present, are relegated to the background by the majority of business leaders.
- Experts recommend not staying isolated and seeking support to alleviate the loneliness and stress associated with running a business.
The challenges of business leaders in 2026
In this year 2026, managing a business is synonymous with major challenges. According to a recent study, the majority of entrepreneurs experience increasing difficulties in their daily lives. Thomas Viriot, head of a printing company, shares his experience: “I have no choice, it has to work, so we give our all for our company.” The pressures related to performance and the survival of the company are the main sources of stress.
The weight of responsibility and its impacts
One in two entrepreneurs considers that the most burdensome responsibility is keeping the company afloat. The most frequent negative thoughts include pressure, doubt, fatigue, and fear of failure. Although family concerns are also mentioned by 21% of respondents, they only take a secondary place in the concerns of business leaders.
The loneliness of leaders and the importance of support
Running a business can sometimes be a lonely experience. Hervé Kermarrec, president of the GSC, advises entrepreneurs not to stay alone and to surround themselves with advisors to better manage the pressure. “When you create your business, you need to seek advice and people to be by your side,” he explains. Taking vacations and allowing oneself real breaks is also essential to avoid burnout.
Economic prospects for entrepreneurs in 2026
Last November, a consultation conducted by CCI France revealed that the morale of French entrepreneurs was at its lowest, comparable to that observed during the Covid-19 pandemic. 73% of them consider the current economic situation unfavorable, while 88% feel that their voices are not sufficiently heard. This difficult economic situation requires adapted strategies to ensure the sustainability of businesses while preserving the well-being of leaders.