BURNOUT AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SATISFACTION: THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL IN THE CONTEXT OF SINDH-PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between burnout and satisfaction among entrepreneurs in Sindh, Pakistan, and assessed the mediating role of psychological capital (PsyCap). The study used a cross-sectional survey approach to collect quantitative data from a sample of 315 entrepreneurs in major urban Hubs of Sindh, including Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) has been used in SmartPLS version 4 to evaluate models and test hypotheses. Results of the study indicate that burnout negatively influences entrepreneurial satisfaction in a significant way. Burnout is also reported to relate negatively and significantly to PsyCap. However, PsyCap plays a buffering role in the relationship. The study highlights that burnout hampers the satisfaction level of entrepreneurs by reducing their motivation and energy in achieving their goals. However, PsyCap is an important resource that, at some level, reduces burnout effects on satisfaction. Thus, the insights of this study underscore the importance of fostering PsyCap resources of entrepreneurs for higher satisfaction by coping with burnout