Entrepreneurs are more optimist than the average person. Is being an optimist a helpful thing for entrepreneurs and innovators?

This report examines past research on this question. It turns out optimism can be a blessing and a curse.

Optimism enhances the likelihood of identifying creative solutions. It also induces over-confidence in the ability to successfully implement these solutions, which makes it more likely that entrepreneurs will take the plunge. It also makes entrepreneurs more persistent in the face of setbacks, protects against stress and makes networking easier.

But at the same time it encourages faulty planning that can undermine even the best ideas.

Authors

Dr Andreas Kappes and Dr Tali Sharot