Title: Unravelling the link between recovery dimensions and well-being in entrepreneurship: a quantitative study
Authors: Ali Bezzaa
Addresses: NPG, Faculty of Law, Economics and Social Sciences, Cadi Ayyad University, Daoudiate, Marrakech, Morocco
Abstract: This study explores the relationships between mental recovery dimensions and entrepreneurs' well-being. Extending recovery research to the entrepreneurial context, it draws on the job demands-resources model (JD-R) arguing that different job recovery dimensions impact entrepreneurs' well-being distinctively. Employing a quantitative approach, this research examines how the four recovery dimensions - detachment, relaxation, mastery and control - influence the mental well-being of 360 Moroccan entrepreneurs. Utilising structural equation modelling, the study tests the proposed research model and finds that mastery and control positively impact entrepreneurs' well-being, while detachment and relaxation do not exhibit significant effects. The findings suggest that, unlike employees, entrepreneurs' well-being is more strongly supported by recovery experiences that enhance competence and autonomy rather than passive detachment from work. The study contributes to the entrepreneurship and well-being literature by highlighting the context-specific nature of recovery mechanisms and offers practical implications for the entrepreneur, entrepreneurship support organisations and entrepreneurship educators.
Keywords: entrepreneurship; well-being; recovery mechanisms; job demands-resources model; entrepreneurship education.
International Journal of Entrepreneurial Venturing, 2025 Vol.17 No.4, pp.444 - 462
Accepted: 03 Dec 2025
Published online: 16 Jun 2026 *