Changing Careers at 40 How to improve your lifestyle and gain independence Around 15% of everyone employed in the UK today, is self-employed1 . In fact, 37% of the increase in employment alone is accredited to people having left full-time employment. And the biggest driving force for this growing trend? A desire for more flexibility and financial reward. But there’s a new kind of independent career in town. Here’s why changing careers at 40 may be the best move you ever make and why investing in a franchise may just be the answer you’re looking for.