A quarter of UK adults harbour the dream of wanting to be their own boss and start a business. But despite a growth in ambition, there is an intention gap – especially with younger generations, who say they lack the discipline and skills to leave the relative safety of a staff job.

Researchers have found that business owners who are very optimistic about their futures often overestimate their abilities, and have no realistic chance of success. The study has provided a valuable insight into why nearly 50% of startups fail within their first five years.

Young, ambitious Gen Yers are becoming more inclined to imagine their future selves as business owners. But with very few saving up funds in order to launch their future endeavours, there’s a disconnect between Gen Y’s present actions and future intentions.

People often place unrealistic expectations on the founders of startups, but as a report by KPMG highlights, the constant pressure of running a startup can take its toll on mental and physical health. Evidence suggests that the sustainability of startups in Australia may rely on their founders wellbeing.