THE DEFINING MOMENTS OF BUSINESS SUCCESS AMONG WOMEN MICRO-ENTREPRENEURS

Abstract

Empirical studies indicate that the unprecedented number of women who engaged in entrepreneurial endeavors is significantly increasing and their participation in entrepreneurship was fueled by their experiences, role at home, and societal norms. This paper defines the business success and illuminates its meaning from the perspective of women micro-entrepreneurs. A systematic literature review approach was employed in using pre-determined keywords. For the purpose of this study, these literatures are limited within the scope of women micro-entrepreneurship which are published in peer reviewed journals from 2001 to 2019. Findings of this literature review showed that women micro-entrepreneurs used subjective terms to define and interpret success instead of solely using quantitative criteria. From the selected readings, the definition of success has been refined and illuminated and expressed such in specific circumstance that translates to ‘moments of success’. Among the moments that define their success are autonomy, personal contentment, enjoyment, being able to control destiny, survival during hard times, and the skills developed. These moments further have afforded them to attain empowerment allowing them to gain status in the society. Philosophically, most of these researches are considered within post-positivist and constructivist worldviews and it is suggested that future studies, in view of multiple realities and innovative approach, a pragmatist view may be considered.