Holistic entrepreneurial inventory: a framework for the integration of spirituality in entrepreneurial performanceInventario emprendedor holístico: un marco para la integración de la espiritualidad en el desempeño emprendedorInventário emprendedor holístico: um framework para a integração da espiritualidade no desempenho emprendedor

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to explore the constructs of spirituality (SP) and entrepreneurial performance (EP) and their measurements to identify their connections. Attending to the needs of entrepreneurs to face the current global crisis, this research establishes a framework that integrates SP to enhance EP. Design/methodology/approach This study focuses on a comprehensive literature review and a comparison between constructs to come across with the proposal of a conceptual framework. Findings For SP, spiritual well-being was found as a good measure which, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, has never been used in entrepreneurship. EP has been typically measured by economic indicators, but recently, noneconomic benefits and effects on stakeholders have also been considered, so an integrated approach is proposed. The main contribution is a framework called holistic entrepreneurial inventory (HEI), which integrates the main elements of the constructs in a matrix showing their interconnection. It is accompanied by a scorecard for entrepreneurs to identify strengths and weaknesses in SP and EP. Research limitations/implications This is a theoretical research and proposal; further empirical research could help confirm the present conceptual findings. Practical implications To help entrepreneurs identify the areas where they would like to improve, understanding the connection between SP and EP, which are dynamic states in constant change. Originality/value EP has been mainly focused on exogenous causes. The HEI scorecard may give entrepreneurs a different perspective from the innermost part of their being.