ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET, GRIT, AND INNOVATION BARRIERS: A COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION OF THEIR INFLUENCE ON SELF-EMPLOYED PERFORMANCE AMONG VOCATIONAL UNIVERSITY GRADUATES

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between entrepreneurial mindset, grit,
innovative barriers, and self- employed performance among vocational university graduates in
China. Using self- determination theory ( SDT) , the study examines how factors interact to
influence performance. The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, employing quantitative
and qualitative data collection methods. The quantitative data is collected through a survey
questionnaire administered to a sample of self-employed graduates from vocational colleges in
Kunming, China. The qualitative data is gathered through interviews with a subset of the survey
respondents. Findings reveal that grit positively mediates the relationship between
entrepreneurial mindset and self- employed performance. Additionally, innovative barriers
moderate the relationship between entrepreneurial mindset and self- employed performance.
The study also identifies a significant positive influence of entrepreneurial mindset on self-
employed performance. These findings contribute to the existing literature on self-employment
by providing a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between entrepreneurial mindset,
grit, innovative barriers, and self- employed performance. The study's findings have
implications for vocational education institutions, policymakers, and self-employed individuals
seeking to enhance their performance.