Navigating stress with creativity: The moderating role of conflict-induced creativity on job satisfaction among entrepreneurs

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BackgroundEntrepreneurs frequently encounter high levels of job stress, which can undermine their job satisfaction. Although the negative consequences of stress are well-known, less attention has been paid to the role of Conflict-Induced Creativity in buffering these effects.ObjectiveThis study investigates how Conflict-Induced Creativity moderates the relationship between job stress and job satisfaction among entrepreneurs, addressing a gap in understanding adaptive mechanisms in high-pressure work environments.MethodsUsing a quantitative design, data were collected from 453 entrepreneurs through convenience sampling. Statistical analyses included factor analyses, correlations, regressions, and moderation testing via PROCESS MACRO in SPSS v.22.ResultsValidated scales assessed job satisfaction (α = 0.934), job stress (α = 0.919), and Conflict-Induced Creativity (α = 0.832). Job stress negatively predicted job satisfaction (β = -0.126, p < 0.001), while Conflict-Induced Creativity emerged as a strong positive predictor (β = 0.688, p < 0.001). Moderation analysis confirmed that Conflict-Induced Creativity significantly buffered the adverse effects of stress on satisfaction (b = 0.147, 95% CI [0.048, 0.245], p < 0.05).ConclusionConflict-Induced Creativity plays a protective role in stressful entrepreneurial contexts. Practically, fostering a work culture that supports Conflict-Induced Creativity can enhance resilience and job satisfaction among entrepreneurs, offering actionable insights for leadership development, training programs, and organizational policy.