Abstract
This study integrates nudging and proactivity theories to investigate how individuals can nudge themselves to be more physically active. We test the daily effects of self-nudging on vigour and use the dual pathway to creativity model to predict indirect effects on two non-targeted outcomes: creativity and prosocial behaviour. One hundred eighty-two (NL2 = 182) employees filled out a short survey for five consecutive days (NL1 = 672). Results of multilevel structural equation modelling provide evidence for the hypothesized model. Daily self-nudging towards physical activity was positively related to (a) creativity and (b) prosocial behaviour through vigour (a combination of physical strength and cognitive liveliness)–after controlling for previous-day levels of the mediator and outcomes. Self-nudging also showed direct effects on the two non-targeted outcomes. These findings offer support for nudging theory and the dual pathway to creativity model. We discuss the theoretical implications and three practical applications.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Accepted/In press - 2025 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- nudging theory
- physical activity
- prosocial behaviour
- self-nudging
- vigor
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Applied Psychology
- Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management