Optimistic Expectations and Proactivity: Can they be the Key to Successful Strategies in Entrepreneurship?

Abstract

The most valuable thing we learned from expectation theories is that expectations affect behaviors significantly. This study deepens this knowledge, and proposes a model that puts forward the idea that optimistic expectations stimulate proactive personality characteristics and in this way activate strategic vigilance which forms the basis of behavioral decisions. In order to test this model, research was carried out with 280 entrepreneurs participating. Data obtained from the sample were analyzed using statistical programs which examine mediating effect. The research findings have shown that optimistic expectations affect strategic vigilance significantly and positively, and proactive personality traits have a fully mediating role in this effect. This is the first study that examines the relationships among optimistic expectations, personality characteristics, and cognitive abilities. To find out other relations between optimistic expectations and personality characteristics and cognitive abilities, there should be more researches. The findings can help provide a different perspective both in analyzing entrepreneurship success and in developing other management practices that increase positive work outputs.