Counselling for Career Innovation, National Development and Sustainability: Be Your Own Boss

Abstract

This position paper examines counselling for career innovation, national development, and sustainability through the lens of being one’s own boss. In response to increasing labour market uncertainty and the declining capacity of formal employment systems, self-employment has emerged as a significant career pathway across diverse contexts. Drawing on Life Design Theory and Sustainable Career Theory, the article explains being one’s own boss as an intentional process of career construction that requires adaptability, meaning-making, and long-term viability. An entrepreneurship counselling-focused perspective was adopted, arguing that self-employment outcomes are shaped not only by economic conditions but also by psychological readiness, career self-management skills, and access to structured guidance. Using a Nigerian context as an illustrative case, the article demonstrates how career counselling can support individuals to develop entrepreneurial mindsets, navigate uncertainty, and align personal aspirations with broader development and sustainability goals. Particular attention is given to counselling approaches, strategies, and responses that promote innovation, resilience, quality of life, and social contribution. The paper advances the position that career counselling should be redefined as a strategic intervention within employment, education, and development agendas, capable of supporting sustainable self-directed careers. By integrating counselling theory with sustainability and development concerns, the article contributes to global discussions on the future of work and the role of career guidance in fostering inclusive and resilient labour markets.