The Power of Psychological Capital: The Strength of Beliefs in Entrepreneurial Behavior

ABSTRACT Objective: this research aimed to analyze entrepreneurial behavior from the components of psychological capital and cognitive social theory, from the human agency perspective. Methods: we used qualitative research along with in-depth interviews, conducted with 21 entrepreneurs with different profiles. The speeches were interpreted by content analysis and expanded into theories. Results: the results show that the actions developed by the interviewees during the creation and development businesses are aligned with the entrepreneurial characteristics, according to the literature, without distinction of gender, age or length of experience. As coping mechanisms for challenges and opportunities, these individuals express their beliefs in behaviors of self-efficacy, optimism, hope, resilience, intentionality, anticipation, self-actualization, and self-reflection. Conclusions: these findings indicate that the psychological forces act as fundamental elements for the success of the entrepreneur, which is essential to being understood in the theoretical and managerial scope and as a relevant element to the research.