Abstract:
This article explores a paradox that is little studied in the literature on entrepreneurial motivation: the choice, by some opportunity entrepreneurs, to pursue an activity in sectors traditionally associated with necessity entrepreneurship. Analysis of interviews with 20 entrepreneurs reveals that, for some of these voluntary entrepreneurs, the choice of sector is based on the search for positive emotions, rather than on strictly economic or strategic considerations. This finding leads us to propose a new conceptual category: pleasure entrepreneurship, which transcends the traditional dichotomy between constrained and voluntary entrepreneurship. The study thus calls for a new approach to entrepreneurial motivation, incorporating the hedonistic dimension as a possible driving force behind entrepreneurial action, even in sectors deemed unattractive.
Keywords: Entrepreneurial motivations, industry choice, necessity entrepreneurship, opportunity entrepreneurship, pleasure entrepreneurship, positive emotions
