Entrepreneurial motivation is a topic that has been explored in various theoretical models to gain insights into entrepreneurial behavior (Murnieks et al., 2020). Motivation, defined as the set of energetic forces that arise both from within individuals and from their environment to initiate behavior and shape its form, direction, intensity, and duration (Mitchell and Daniels, 2003). An area within this field examines the factors that drive entrepreneurs to launch, expand, and eventually exit their ventures. Studies on entrepreneurial motivation frequently focus on distinct phases of the business development process, including venture initiation, growth, and exit (Murnieks et al., 2020).

In the current socioeconomic environment, the sustainability of organizations and companies requires constant adaptation, and for an organization to innovate and create, employees need to be motivated and provided with the necessary resources, and the work environment needs to be effectively managed (Mumford and Fichtel, 2020). Therefore, this research seeks to provide critical insights into the underlying factors that shape entrepreneurial motivation, which can be used to devise effective strategies that support and foster entrepreneurship. By examining these factors, this study contributes to the existing literature on entrepreneurial motivation. It sheds light on the impact of the environment on attitudes towards entrepreneurship and the relationship variables on entrepreneurial motivation. These insights are valuable for entrepreneurs and policymakers, who can use this information to develop effective strategies that support and foster entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship is a widely recognized driver of economic growth, innovation, and employment (Acs et al., 2009; Carree and Thurik, 2010; Nor, 2024). Organizations such as the European Commission (2021) are committed to fostering entrepreneurial intentions and career paths. In the current socioeconomic environment, organizations and companies require constant adaptation to be sustainable (Mumford and Fichtel, 2020). Innovation necessitates financial, material, and information resources, opportunities for exploration, and enough time to pursue novel ideas and approaches (Amabile, 1997; Glaeser and Lang, 2024).

The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report (GEM, 2013) identifies several factors associated with entrepreneurship, including the perception of opportunities, orientation, attitudes, fear of failure, and entrepreneurial motivations. The report suggests that to foster entrepreneurship, government authorities must not only focus on providing external resources, such as capital and favorable financing terms, but also analyze potential entrepreneurs’ skills, motivations, and experiences. Governments need to adopt a holistic approach to supporting entrepreneurship, which considers the development of necessary skills, attitudes, and motivations of prospective entrepreneurs, if they are to encourage the creation of new businesses and positively impact economic growth and development (GEM, 2013). Furthermore, during Covid, the evidence regarding business activity levels was mixed, with the most common pattern showing a decline followed and then an increase (GEM, 2023).

The Deci and Ryan model (Deci and Ryan, 1985), considers different types of motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic) across three distinct levels of generality. Furthermore, the model posits that motivation should be viewed from a multidimensional perspective. Thus, it is insufficient to merely differentiate between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation; instead, these constructs must be understood as existing on a continuum, where the various types of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation range from high to low levels of self-determination (Vallerand, 2000). The relationship between entrepreneurial behaviors and motivation has been established in previous research (George and Marino, 2011; Kuhn and Galloway, 2015). Kuhn and Galloway (2015) found that a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations leads to higher business performance than intrinsic motivations alone. Intrinsic motivation plays a crucial role in driving the constant pursuit of improvement, as well as the search for challenges and achievements (Lumpkin and Dess, 1996, 2001). Meanwhile, innovative capacity refers to the ability to generate and apply creative ideas that result in novel and distinctive products, services, or processes (Berrone et al., 2012; Lumpkin and Dess, 1996, 2001; Zhou et al., 2005; Vij and Bedi, 2012). Additionally, the willingness to take calculated risks involves carefully assessing the potential costs and benefits before making strategic decisions (Hult et al., 2004; Covin et al., 2006). These characteristics intertwine with proactivity in identifying opportunities, which implies a future-oriented mindset and the ability to anticipate market needs and demands (Lumpkin and Dess, 2001).

However, the interaction between these constructs remains relatively underexplored in the literature (Carsrud and Brännback, 2011). Entrepreneurship requires individuals to generate valuable ideas, and creativity is considered a fundamental aspect of entrepreneurship (Baron, 1998). Entrepreneurs must be able to creatively interpret their environment to identify opportunities within their area of expertise (DeTienne and Chandler, 2004).

The support of family and friends can also significantly impact work creativity (Madjar, 2008). Individuals with high levels of self-perceived creativity are expected to have positive attitudes towards entrepreneurship, as they may view entrepreneurship as an opportunity to express their creative potential (Kolvereid, 1996; Moriano, 2005; Kautonen et al., 2013).

Moreover, self-rated creativity may act as a precursor to entrepreneurial self-efficacy, which pertains to an individual’s belief in their capacity to execute entrepreneurial duties, such as recognizing fresh business prospects, generating new products, promoting concepts or novel innovations, resolving dilemmas, managing financial resources, securing support from others, exhibiting leadership, and making effective decisions (Moriano, 2005; Wilson et al., 2007; Phipps and Prieto, 2015; van Gelderen et al., 2008). Leadership in relation to entrepreneurship has been a topic of controversy, particularly with the emergence of new factors like humble leadership, which may represent an innovative contribution to the literature on entrepreneurial motivation (D’Errico, 2019; D’Errico and Poggi, 2019).

Previous research has focused on understanding the reasons why people start a business venture and the relationship between entrepreneurial behaviors and motivation. Morris et al. (2006) suggested that the reason for initiating a business venture is a critical determinant of growth aspirations, and individuals motivated by the desire for financial gain or challenge exhibit a higher inclination towards growth. Conversely, those motivated by discrimination or self-expression may be less inclined towards development.

The objective of this research is to examine the relationships between a set of antecedents and the three dimensions of Entrepreneurial Motivation (Family Security, Independence and Autonomy, and Intrinsic Motivation).

Entrepreneurial motivation toward family security has recently gained attention as entrepreneurs seek financial stability and security for their families through entrepreneurial activities. A new hypothesis proposes that entrepreneurial motivation toward family security can be accurately related by considering certain variables. These relationship variables include workaholism, personality traits, and obsessive beliefs, which it is suggested have a significant impact on entrepreneurial motivation toward family security.

Several studies have examined the relationship between workaholism and entrepreneurship. Clark et al. (2016) discovered a positive correlation between workaholic tendencies and entrepreneurial activity, highlighting the adverse effects of workaholism, such as burnout and decreased work-life balance. Similarly, Gorgievski et al. (2010) found that high levels of work engagement, which is related to workaholism, were positively linked to entrepreneurial intentions. Research on personality traits has also demonstrated that specific personality traits are linked to higher entrepreneurial motivation levels. For instance, Zhao et al. (2010) discovered that high levels of extraversion, openness to experience, and emotional stability were positively associated with entrepreneurial motivation.

Moreover, obsessive beliefs have been identified as a potential related variable of entrepreneurial motivation. According to Tu et al. (2023), research has shown that these beliefs, described as persistent, irrational thoughts or beliefs that are difficult to control, are positively associated with entrepreneurship and innovation. The hypothesis that entrepreneurial motivation towards family security may be accurately related by considering workaholism, personality traits, and obsessive beliefs is significant as it has implications for creating effective strategies to support and promote entrepreneurship among individuals who desire to provide financial security for their families.

This hypothesis proposes that workaholism, personality traits, and obsessive beliefs are critical indicators of entrepreneurial motivation toward autonomy and independence. It suggests that by integrating these variables into the model, an individual’s level of entrepreneurial motivation regarding independence and autonomy can be forecast with great accuracy.

Prior studies have underscored the significance of understanding the motivational factors that propel individuals toward entrepreneurship. Krueger (2000) emphasized the role of cognitive factors, particularly entrepreneurial self-efficacy, in predicting entrepreneurial intentions. Workaholism, a well-known concept, and its effect on personal and professional life have been defined and measured by Spence and Robbins (1992). In their study, workaholism, personality traits, and obsessive beliefs are significant predictors of entrepreneurial motivation toward independence and autonomy. By integrating these factors into the model, an individual’s entrepreneurial motivation level can be accurately forecast, thereby having profound implications for entrepreneurship education and training programs. We, therefore, hypothesized the following.

According to Baron (2004), entrepreneurship is crucial for driving economic growth and innovation on a global scale. To comprehend the driving force behind entrepreneurs starting and developing successful businesses, various researchers have analyzed different factors that influence entrepreneurial motivation. One of the most extensively researched aspects is intrinsic motivation, which pertains to an individual’s internal drive to pursue a specific objective or activity for personal satisfaction rather than for external rewards such as financial gain or public recognition, as noted by Cardon et al. (2009).

This research will examine the impact of different variables such as workaholism, personality, and obsessive beliefs on entrepreneurial motivation and whether these variables significantly influence the development of intrinsic motivation. Based on the hypothesis, this study aims for a model that includes these variables so that intrinsic entrepreneurial motivation can be accurately related.

The notion that family security is central to shaping entrepreneurial motivation has received growing attention in entrepreneurship research. This hypothesis posits that personal characteristics, behaviors, and dispositions are crucial factors in determining an individual’s motivation to start and operate a business, this perspective aligns with the growing body of literature aimed at understanding the drivers behind individuals choosing entrepreneurship as a career path. The existing literature, as reviewed by Benzíng et al. (2009), suggests that personal and family security, alongside economic factors, independence, and internal satisfaction, are considered vital motivators for entrepreneurs in starting new ventures (Shabbir and Gregorio, 1996; Swierczek and Thai, 2003). Concurrently, research has explored how societal changes have impacted family structure. One notable study by Bitler et al. (2004) found that these changes significantly affected family structure, decreasing rates of divorce and marriage. However, another study by Fitzgerald and Ribar (2004) found no evidence to indicate that these societal changes affected the prevalence of single-parent households.

The explanatory variables outlined in the hypothesis encompass a range of personality traits, behavioral tendencies, and dispositions that are believed to influence entrepreneurial motivation. For instance, OPERAS-measured (OPERAS; Vigil-Colet et al., 2013) extraversion and emotional stability are considered essential traits for entrepreneurs, as they can impact their capacity to engage with others and deal with stress in the face of ambiguity (Cuesta et al., 2018).

The evaluation of entrepreneurs’ motivation is crucial, as it is an aspect that impacts their behavior both before and after the start of a venture (Kuratko et al., 1997). The type and magnitude of an individual’s entrepreneurial motivation can determine the goals and aspirations of the enterprise, contributing to a spectrum of macroeconomic outcomes (Fernandez-Serrano and Romero, 2013; Fernandez et al., 2009; Hessels et al., 2008). Additionally, traits such as responsibility, Agreeableness, and openness to experience are believed to play a significant role in an individual’s capability to manage a successful business, because they influence their decision-making processes, collaboration abilities, and receptiveness to new prospects.

In conclusion, the first hypothesis, that family security plays a role in shaping entrepreneurial motivation, is supported by existing empirical evidence within the field of entrepreneurship. Cheraghi (2017) highlighted various external adverse conditions, such as unemployment, dissatisfaction with one’s current job, job loss, low-paying positions with limited upward mobility, and concerns over future family security, which can serve as push factors that attract individuals towards entrepreneurship. These findings indicate the significance of considering external factors when analyzing entrepreneurial motivation. The relationship between entrepreneurs’ motivation and the success of their enterprises is a well-recognized area of study in both developed and developing countries (Isaak, 2016). However, it is essential to recognize that this is a complex and multi-dimensional topic, and not all individuals with the relevant explanatory variables necessarily exhibit entrepreneurial motivation. Additional research is required to enhance our comprehension of the interrelationship between explanatory variables and entrepreneurial inspiration.

The second hypothesis, that independence and autonomy play a role in shaping entrepreneurial motivation, has received considerable attention in entrepreneurship research. Shane et al. (2003) argued that this is further supported by research on entrepreneurship and satisfaction, which highlights the significance of autonomy. Additionally, societal trends that favor increased self-reliance further underscore the importance of this factor. The self-determination theory and self-directed learning perspectives offer insights into how autonomy can be effectively incorporated into entrepreneurship education.

The desire for autonomy and self-direction has been proposed as a fundamental motive for individuals’ interest in working in smaller firms. This is supported by the findings of Jubari et al. (2017), who provided evidence of the importance of autonomy in entrepreneurship as a career. The need for independence has also been identified as a predictor of an individual’s suitability to an entrepreneurial role (Bhardwaj and Mittal, 2017; Vecchio, 2003), further emphasizing its significance in this area.

The concept of entrepreneurial motivation is an essential aspect of entrepreneurship research. Entrepreneurial motivation is a critical predictor of subsequent entrepreneurial behavior, and individuals willing to take calculated risks and believe in their capabilities are assumed to drive the economy. According to Scarborough (2012), entrepreneurs’ driving motivations are profit, personal growth, and self-belief, and the desire to establish an entrepreneurial entity in an environment characterized by risk and uncertainty. The discussion on entrepreneurship has focused on exploiting entrepreneurial opportunities, resulting in a lack of research on initiating the process (Carsrud and Brännback, 2011). Miller et al. (2012) argue that employees with high entrepreneurial motivation scores are more likely to consider entrepreneurship as a career option.

By exploring the impact of entrepreneurial motivation among employees working in companies on the willingness to become an entrepreneur, the study sheds light on the mismatch between entrepreneurship-promoting efforts and outcomes observed by Mahto and McDowell (2018). The study’s findings are expected to contribute to the literature on entrepreneurship and the individual identity formation process (Ashforth and Schinoff, 2016).

The third hypothesis, regarding intrinsic motivation, has garnered considerable attention in entrepreneurship research as a relationship factor of entrepreneurial conduct. Perwin (2003) explains that inherent motivation is an innate inclination towards a particular task, whereas extrinsic motivation entails receiving external rewards for engaging in a specific behavior. Investigating entrepreneurial motivation is crucial to comprehending the motivating forces behind individuals’ decisions to pursue entrepreneurship (Lee and Wong, 2004). Previous research on entrepreneurial intention (EI) has explored various factors influencing an individual’s decision to start a new venture, including personality traits, socio-demographic characteristics, and capital availability. However, the phonological approach to predicting start-up decisions has yet to be successful (Linan and Santos, 2007). In The Theory of Planned Behavior, Ajzen (1991) provides a more extensive framework for comprehending EI. His approach accounts for the interplay between societal and personal factors and the impact of attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived control on intention.

The key drivers of EI have been identified as DSE (Desire for Self-Employment), FSE (Fear of Self-Employment), TR (Tendency to Risk), and PG&NGS (Perceived Growth and Non-Growth Situations) (Ummah, 2009). Uncertainty is also essential in predicting self-employment intention, as individuals need knowledge and motivation to risk starting a new venture (McMullen and Shepherd, 2006). Successful entrepreneurs tend to possess specific key drivers, such as independence, achievement, internal locus of control, risk-taking ability, innovation, self-confidence, and proactivity. In total, entrepreneurial and intrinsic motivation play a significant role in determining an individual’s entrepreneurial intention (McStay, 2008).

In conclusion, the three hypotheses are partially demonstrated (Table 5), since only some explanatory variables are significant (Perfectionism and intolerance to uncertainty, Conscientiousness, Work enjoyment and Agreeableness). Existing discussions on entrepreneurship support the hypothesis that family security plays a role in shaping entrepreneurial motivation. Personal and family security, economic factors, independence, and internal satisfaction are critical motivators for individuals to start new ventures. Related variables such as extraversion, emotional stability, responsibility, Agreeableness, and openness to experience also significantly shape entrepreneurial motivation and have been linked to an individual’s success in managing a business. The desire for autonomy and self-direction has also been identified as a fundamental motive for individuals interested in entrepreneurship. The current study explored the relationship of entrepreneurship motivation on the willingness of employees to become entrepreneurs.

The results also have several theoretical and practical implications. Our study contributes to the body of literature that examines the relationships between workaholism, personality, obsessive beliefs, and entrepreneurial motivation. The practical implications suggest that entrepreneurship support programs could benefit from considering not only entrepreneurial orientation but also other variables such as perfectionism and work enjoyment. This study has not only enriched the field of entrepreneurship and business psychology but also provided insights for future research (Asad et al., 2024; Franczak et al., 2024).

The study presents several limitations that must be considered when interpreting its findings. One of the primary limitations is the complex and multifaceted relationship between the exploratory variables and entrepreneurial motivation. The study acknowledges that not all individuals possessing the related variables will exhibit entrepreneurial motivation and therefore calls for further research to gain a deeper understanding of this relationship. Futhermore, the selected sample represents a limitation as it is predominantly Western and reflects a culture oriented towards competitiveness.

Another area for improvement is the reliance on self-reported data, which may not fully capture external factors such as cultural, social and economic environments. These external factors may also be crucial in shaping an individual’s entrepreneurial motivation. Future research designs should incorporate both internal and external factors to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the drivers behind entrepreneurial motivation.

Additionally, the study only focuses on a limited set of explanatory variables, which may not capture the full range of factors that contribute to entrepreneurial motivation. Therefore, future research should expand the scope of related variables and consider other relevant factors such as family background, educational level, organizational support and previous work experience. Finally, it must be noted that the study’s results may not be universally applicable. The impact of the explanatory variables on entrepreneurial motivation may vary with geographical and cultural differences. Future research should explore the generalizability of the findings across different regions and cultures. This will enable a more nuanced understanding of entrepreneurial motivation.