Many working Millennials today are torn between raking in huge amounts of cash and pursuing their passion. While “doing what you love” is advice often given to us, we can’t help but consider our financial situation. So we do “side hustles” instead—or sideline work pursued outside a 9-to-5 job—to get the best of both worlds. From freelance writing to event photography to being an Uber driver—there’s no limit to what one can do to supplement their income.
But while side hustles are great for self-fulfillment, they’re not that easy to pull off. Before you jump into the trend, take note of these tips to successfully start your side hustle while you’re still employed.
8. Set boundaries.
You have to make sure that the side gig you want doesn’t conflict with your current job. If you’re an online writer, don’t be a part-time editor for another website. Not only does it defeat the purpose of having a side hustle (because you’re basically doing the same thing), but it also raises a red flag to your day job employers.
7. Don’t sacrifice quality of work of one job for the sake of the other.
You might think you’re a pro at juggling two tasks at the same time, but juggling two different jobs for an extended period shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s not a question of where to find time to do both, but when you should be doing either. Be a professional and don’t do work related to your side hustle during your 9-to-5 job. Similarly, you need to assess your schedule during your off-hours to know if a side hustle is feasible for you.
6. Make sure your side hustle is something you’re truly passionate about.
The reason you have a side hustle is so you can pursue your interests and earn money from it. If you take on a freelancing gig that you don’t like very much, then you’ll really feel overworked. Do what you love and enjoy it so that your side hustle feels more like “me time” rather than a sideline job.
5. Tell your boss.
It’s vital that you tell your day job boss about your side gig so they’re aware of what you’re doing during your off-hours. Who knows, your boss might offer to help you look for suppliers and clients!
4. Advertise yourself and your skills online or to friends.
When looking for clients, you have to put yourself out there. Actively seek work; don’t wait around for it to come to you. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues if they can recommend you to anyone who might need your services.
3. Stop being idle.
Make better use of your off-hours by being productive. Instead of wasting time in the mornings just scrolling through your Twitter timeline, accomplish your side hustle tasks. Remember that you brought this extra work upon yourself, so be responsible enough to use your time well.
2. Work with somebody who can work full-time.
If your side gig is working for your own business, working with someone who can dedicate most of their time managing the business will help you ease your weekend workload. Plus, you’ll be more confident in the success of your business knowing that it’s still running 24/7 even without you being completely hands on.
1. Look for ways to make your side hustle and your day job feed off one another
Seize opportunities to learn new skills from your side hustle that you can help you with your day job. Similarly, promote your company and its services to your side hustle clients whenever you can.
Excited to pursue your passions and earn money on the side? Tell us your thoughts below!
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