Entrepreneurship and Happiness: Exploring the Nexus Between Lifestyle, Job Satisfaction and Subjective Well-being

Authors

  • Ivannia Gomezgil Yaspik DEGEIT, University of Aveiro
  • Ricardo Azevedo DEM, University of Aveiro
  • Nina Szczygiel GOVCOPP, DEGEIT, University of Aveiro

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/ecie.19.1.2632

Keywords:

subjective well-being, happiness, entrepreneurship, job satisfaction, lifestyle, life purpose

Abstract

The present study delves into the less explored relation between entrepreneurship and happiness and aims to deepen our understanding on entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial activities and lifestyle, and subjective well-being. A sample of 13 interviews conducted with entrepreneurs in Portugal was analyzed by a combination of qualitative interviews. By relying on self-reports to gauge the entrepreneurs’ perception of their own emotional state, the research has found that happiness extends beyond the traditional scope of objective well-being and is closely linked to their cognitive and emotional experiences, such as life satisfaction and emotional balance. The results show that entrepreneurs scored higher on happiness levels than the country average, even spending most of their week, weekends and holidays at work. Despite the long hours, more than half of the entrepreneurs did not feel they were missing valuable time with family and friends. However, they did acknowledge not having the most balanced and healthiest lifestyle reflected in a higher propensity to experience stress that could have further implications in mental health. These insights are central to understanding the nexus between entrepreneurship and well-being when factors such as on lifestyle, motivation and job satisfaction come into play, and the broader implications for entrepreneurial success.

Author Biographies

Ivannia Gomezgil Yaspik, DEGEIT, University of Aveiro

Ivannia Gomezgil Yaspik is currently pursuing a master's degree in Audit and Accounting after completing her Business Consultancy International degree. She is particularly interested in financial analysis, corporate governance, and fostering happiness in the workplace. She aims to help organizations improve their financial reporting, compliance practices, and overall employee well-being.

Ricardo Azevedo, DEM, University of Aveiro

Ricardo Azevedo has a degree in Mechanical Engineering and combines his technical training with a strong interest in business. His work emphasizes the integration of engineering solutions into business ventures, highlighting his dedication to bridging the gap between technical knowledge and business innovation.

Nina Szczygiel, GOVCOPP, DEGEIT, University of Aveiro

Nina Szczygiel is an assistant professor at Aveiro University and a member of the Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP). With her background in management psychology and economics, she has been interested in intersectoral partnerships, networks and well-being, and, more recently, in behavior and mental health.

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Published

2024-09-20