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Freedom and Boundaries: Exploring the Influence of Flexible Working Practices on Work-Life Balance in Entrepreneurship

Greenhalgh, Jemma LU and Esmaeili, Arvin LU (2025) ENTN19 20251
Department of Business Administration
Abstract (Swedish)
This thesis examines how entrepreneurs organise flexible working practices in self-structured environments and how these shape their perceived work-life balance. Unlike research focused on employees in traditional settings, this study explores entrepreneurs operating with high autonomy and little external structure. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Boundary Theory, and Spillover Theory, it investigates how performance and balance are sustained in these conditions. A qualitative abductive approach was used, with in-depth interviews from 13 Sweden-based entrepreneurs, analysed using the Gioia method. Findings reveal four interrelated dimensions: (1) intrinsic motivation and meaningful work drive entrepreneurs; (2) routines like time... (More)
This thesis examines how entrepreneurs organise flexible working practices in self-structured environments and how these shape their perceived work-life balance. Unlike research focused on employees in traditional settings, this study explores entrepreneurs operating with high autonomy and little external structure. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Boundary Theory, and Spillover Theory, it investigates how performance and balance are sustained in these conditions. A qualitative abductive approach was used, with in-depth interviews from 13 Sweden-based entrepreneurs, analysed using the Gioia method. Findings reveal four interrelated dimensions: (1) intrinsic motivation and meaningful work drive entrepreneurs; (2) routines like time blocking and workspace selection support focus and flexibility; (3) blurred boundaries are managed through physical, digital, and emotional strategies; and (4) balance is maintained through recovery practices, self-awareness, and value alignment. The study shows that autonomy alone is not enough; balance and well-being require intentional self-regulation and personalised structure. This research extends existing theory and offers practical insights for sustainable, self-directed work models in entrepreneurship. (Less)
Please use this url to cite or link to this publication:
author
Greenhalgh, Jemma LU and Esmaeili, Arvin LU
supervisor
organization
course
ENTN19 20251
year
type
H1 - Master's Degree (One Year)
subject
keywords
flexible work, entrepreneurship, work-life balance, autonomy, boundary theory, self determination theory, spillover theory, qualitative research.
language
English
id
9195284
date added to LUP
2025-06-23 09:59:45
date last changed
2025-06-23 09:59:45
@misc{9195284,
  abstract     = {{This thesis examines how entrepreneurs organise flexible working practices in self-structured environments and how these shape their perceived work-life balance. Unlike research focused on employees in traditional settings, this study explores entrepreneurs operating with high autonomy and little external structure. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Boundary Theory, and Spillover Theory, it investigates how performance and balance are sustained in these conditions. A qualitative abductive approach was used, with in-depth interviews from 13 Sweden-based entrepreneurs, analysed using the Gioia method. Findings reveal four interrelated dimensions: (1) intrinsic motivation and meaningful work drive entrepreneurs; (2) routines like time blocking and workspace selection support focus and flexibility; (3) blurred boundaries are managed through physical, digital, and emotional strategies; and (4) balance is maintained through recovery practices, self-awareness, and value alignment. The study shows that autonomy alone is not enough; balance and well-being require intentional self-regulation and personalised structure. This research extends existing theory and offers practical insights for sustainable, self-directed work models in entrepreneurship.}},
  author       = {{Greenhalgh, Jemma and Esmaeili, Arvin}},
  language     = {{eng}},
  note         = {{Student Paper}},
  title        = {{Freedom and Boundaries: Exploring the Influence of Flexible Working Practices on Work-Life Balance in Entrepreneurship}},
  year         = {{2025}},
}