A paradox mindset indicates the extent to which individuals embrace and are energized by tensions. The adoption of a paradox mindset can help people leverage tensions and produce creative outputs. We propose a multilevel model based on self-determination theory that examines the effects of a paradox mindset on individuals’ innovative work behavior. We use data collected at two points in time from 369 employees in 90 teams; the multilevel data analysis shows that employees’ paradox mindset has a positive influence on their innovative behaviors via thriving at work. In addition, the cross-level moderated mediation results demonstrate that leaders’ paradox mindset strengthens the relationship between employees’ paradox mindset and thriving at work; also, it is positively associated with employees’ innovative work behavior. This study contributes to the literature on individuals’ approaches to paradoxes illustrating the psychological process from a paradox mindset to employees’ innovative work behavior.

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