Jodi Innerfield, 39, started her own consulting business after being laid off from Salesforce in 2024. Rather than seek another corporate role, she chose self-employment, valuing the autonomy and flexibility. Her income now surpasses her former salary, reflecting a growing trend among workers disenchanted with corporate instability.

A 'quality jobs crisis' is driving many to freelance or launch their own ventures. Just 28 percent of workers say now is a good time to find a quality job, down from 70 percent in 2022, per Gallup. Workers report dissatisfaction with pay and advancement opportunities, while companies continue layoffs and demanding schedules.

Self-employment offers independence but comes with challenges: long hours, blurred work-life boundaries, and no employer benefits. Over half of self-employed workers don't contribute to retirement accounts, according to the American Job Quality Study. Despite risks, many find greater job satisfaction outside the corporate structure.