Strategies for Modifying Entrepreneurial Ideation Beliefs: A Thematic Systematic Review

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Tehran University professor

2 Faculty of Entrepreneurship

10.22059/jed.2023.365581.654269

Abstract

Objectives: Beliefs shape actions, especially in the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship. This research critically assesses the transformative journey of beliefs, from limiting to empowering, essential for fostering and strengthening an entrepreneurial spirit. Through meticulous methodology, it unveils the multifaceted strategies pivotal for recalibrating beliefs. Central to the research is network learning. Previous studies have highlighted its importance in magnifying social interactions and information dissemination, thereby influencing an individual's beliefs and understanding of their intrinsic personality traits and identity facets. Entrepreneurs, when supported by network members, mentors, consultants, and coaches, navigate through the murky waters of self-discovery, identifying their limiting beliefs and embarking on transformative journeys.

Methods: The rigorous methodology of this study is rooted in a thematic analysis approach, following a series of systematic steps. Commencing with a meticulous review of selected articles, the process then shifted focus to creating primary codes, subsequently identifying and merging similar themes, and culminating in the naming of these themes and preparation of consolidated reports. The software for analysing is MaxQD software, which was instrumental in extracting and mapping the research flow. The synergy of the outlined steps, along with insights from previous research, steered the study to address the research questions. A significant part of the methodology was rooted in the selection of relevant research articles. A deep-dive search was executed in two premier databases, Scopus and Web of Science, recognized for their extensive coverage of published research. The search focused on articles in English in the disciplines of management, psychology, and entrepreneurship. To achieve specificity, a myriad of terminologies, including 'entrepreneurial belief', 'mental model', 'schema', 'core belief', and 'intermediate belief', were harnessed in the titles, abstracts, and keywords of articles. The search yielded 260 articles, which were then subjected to two-stage scrutiny. The initial scrutiny, based on titles and abstracts, narrowed the pool to 164 articles. Further in-depth reviews, particularly of their findings and outputs, led to the final selection of 40 articles, deemed most relevant to the research topic. The span of the selected articles ranged from 2000 to 2023. Interestingly, a significant proportion were published in reputable journals such as JBV, ET&P, and the Academy of Management.

Findings: These articles, after rigorous review, were used to extract and consolidate insights on the transformative journey of beliefs in entrepreneurship. Self-regulation emerged as a linchpin in the belief transformation process, emphasizing the value of fostering a growth mindset. Participants showcased enhanced effort and resilience when faced with restrictive scenarios, attributable to targeted training on self-regulation. Reflective mechanisms like journals amplified this introspective journey. Moreover, self-efficacy's role was undeniable. Judgments on self-efficacy levels substantially influenced participants' persistence and effort in adversities, bolstered by interactions with seasoned entrepreneurs. The psychological facet of cognitive dissonance too carved its space, driving individuals towards introspection when confronted with conflicting beliefs.

Conclusion: recalibrating beliefs in entrepreneurship necessitates an integrative approach. This research, through a comprehensive thematic analysis and review of existing literature, accentuates the crucial strategies for belief transformation. The findings not only underscore the nuanced interplay between beliefs and entrepreneurial actions but also present a roadmap for academics and practitioners, emphasizing a belief system that's simultaneously introspective and adaptive to the entrepreneurial landscape

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