Work

Why are optimistic entrepreneurs successful? An application of the regulatory focus theory

Year: 2008

Type: preprint

Abstract: Does entrepreneurial optimism affect business performance? Using a unique data set based on repeated survey design, we investigate this relationship empirically. Our measures of ëoptimismí and ërealismí are derived from comparing the turnover growth expectations of 133 owners-managers with the actual outcomes one year later. Our results indicate that entrepreneurial optimists perform significantly better in terms of profits than pessimists. Moreover, it is the optimist-realist combination that performs best. We interpret our results using regulatory focus theory.

Source: RePEc: Research Papers in Economics

Authors: Ruta Aidis, Tomasz Mickiewicz, Arnis Sauka

Institutions: University College London, Aston University, Stockholm School of Economics

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W2122587913

Cites: 25

Cited by: 11

Related to: 10