This study aimed to understand the transition of skilled professionals who give up corporate careers to set up their own businesses in their original professional areas. The researchers sought to identify in the respondents' narratives their dilemmas, motivations, satisfaction and other evidence that might show how their experiences in different organizations boosted or influenced their entrepreneurial initiatives. This is a qualitative study, employing an exploratory approach (DENZIN and LINCOLN, 1994). Eight cases were analyzed in the context of the literature of working relations that recognizes the erosion in long-term relationships between employees and employers (CAPELLI, 1999) and the consequences imposed on professionals (HARVEY, 1992). The conclusion reinforces the findings of previous researchers by identifying the motivating factors for entrepreneurship, such as the drive for flexibility, autonomy and improved quality of life. Moreover, this study reveals some antecedents not previously considered in the literature-for example, individuals wishing to reflect their personal values and beliefs in their own businesses. The paper illustrates how entrepreneurship is emerging in Brazil as a response to dissatisfaction and dilemmas in the workplace.
Entrepreneurship; Workingrelations; Career; Organizations