The effects of short video app–guided mindfulness meditation on rumination, self-compassion, psychological flexibility, and depression among individuals experiencing entrepreneurial failure

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a short video app–guided mindfulness meditation intervention in improving psychological flexibility and self-compassion and reducing rumination and depressive symptoms among failed entrepreneurs. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 recently failed entrepreneurs (aged 25–55), who were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 50) or a waitlist control group (n = 50). Over five weeks, the intervention group completed daily 3-minute guided mindfulness meditation sessions via a secure mobile app. Psychological outcomes—including rumination, self-compassion, psychological flexibility, and depression—were assessed at pre- and post-intervention using validated instruments(Self-Compassion Scale – Short Form, SCS-SF), psychological flexibility (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II, AAQ-II). Data were analyzed using a two-step approach: a 2 (Group: Intervention vs. Control) × 2 (Time: Pre vs. Post) mixed-design MANOVA was first conducted to assess overall multivariate effects, followed by repeated measures ANOVAs for each outcome variable. Results: Significant group × time interaction effects were observed across all outcome variables. Compared to the control group, the intervention group showed significant reductions in rumination (F (1, 98) = 14.485, p