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Perseverance strategies of enterprising individuals

2012; Emerald Publishing Limited; Volume: 18; Issue: 6 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1108/13552551211268102

1758-6534

Marco van Gelderen,

Workplace Spirituality and Leadership

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to arrive at a conceptual understanding of perseverance processes in the context of enterprising behavior and to outline readily employable perseverance strategies for situations characterized by obstacles, challenges and setbacks. Design/methodology/approach This paper presents a process model of perseverance, drawing on elements of control theory and appraisal theory. Findings From this model, a variety of perseverance strategies within four broad categories is derived: strategies that affect adversity itself; strategies that change the way adversity is perceived; strategies that reframe the aim that adversity has made difficult to attain; and strategies that help to increase self‐regulatory strength. James Dyson's biography provides examples for the strategies. Practical implications The paper discusses a broad variety of strategies to help individuals persevere in reaching their enterprising goals. Originality/value Although it is a widely held perception that perseverance is needed to successfully start and run a venture, the perseverance process and perseverance strategies have received little research attention.