Choosing jobs over entrepreneurship: how do negative emotions demotivate the aspiring entrepreneurs?

Purpose The purpose of this research paper is to understand the effect of negative emotions created from social interactions on the aspiring entrepreneurs. The government of India has recently started several entrepreneurship development schemes to promote entrepreneurship among Indian youth, but still, the turnout rate tends to be low in some eastern states. A lot of research has been done about the various motivating factors, but less attention has been paid on the social interactions that create negative emotions. Unless researchers and government focus on the value of these negative emotions as corroders of motivation, it would be hard to accomplish the goals of an entrepreneurship-oriented country. Design/methodology/approach Interviews were conducted with participants of an entrepreneurship development program at the commencement of program and after one year. Findings It was found via the study that social interaction plays a crucial role in determining their motivation toward becoming an entrepreneur. Apart from this feeling of shame, fear, vulnerability, resentment, loneliness and self-doubt are crucial negative emotions that are corroding the chances of entrepreneurship among the Indian youth. Research limitations/implications The sample size was small to conduct a quantitative analysis. If a study could be conducted on a larger scale, it would contribute immensely to the entrepreneurship literature. Social implications It is a strong reminder of how the society can help in promoting entrepreneurship. Originality/value The impact of social interactions on the motivation of budding entrepreneurs has not been studied as per the literature review.