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A Self-Regulatory Model of Entrepreneurs’ Variability in Decision-Making and Taking Charge Behavior

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  • Kai C. Bormann

Abstract

I introduce variability in decision-making (VDM) as a construct that covers the extent to which entrepreneurs switch between analytic and intuitive decision-making over time. Drawing from self-regulation theories, I developed a model that explains how VDM is negatively related to taking charge behavior (TCB) and is driven by entrepreneurs’ regulatory focus strategies. This model is tested using a dataset covering 438 daily observations from 53 entrepreneurs and matched data from non-entrepreneurs. The results show that VDM leads to decreased TCB via decreased self-efficacy and optimism. Prevention but not promotion focus predicted VDM. These associations emerged for entrepreneurs but not for non-entrepreneurs.

Suggested Citation

  • Kai C. Bormann, 2025. "A Self-Regulatory Model of Entrepreneurs’ Variability in Decision-Making and Taking Charge Behavior," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 49(5), pages 1292-1328, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:49:y:2025:i:5:p:1292-1328
    DOI: 10.1177/10422587241306872
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