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It’s a given that many of us wish we made more money. Maybe you want pay off some pesky debt or boost your savings. If that’s the case, then a side hustle can help—a second job that brings in some income but has the flexibility to work around your full-time gig.
Why start a side hustle?
You might dread the thought of having another job, but a side hustle can be a fulfilling creative outlet. Using skills that you already have, you can incorporate them into your side hustle. This is especially valuable if you find that your full-time job isn’t artistically minded; maybe you love to create logos, for instance, but you spend all day tinkering with website code. By building a freelance graphic design business, you've got something to look forward to at the end of a long work day. (And it doesn't hurt that it's earning you some extra money!)
There are other practical reasons to start a side hustle. Aside from the extra income, this diversifies the way you make money and is added financial security. If you ever had an emergency or lost your full-time job, you would have some supplemental income to fall back on.
Where can a side hustle take you?
Many people who have side hustles choose to keep them exactly that—something they do outside of their day job. For others, the fact that it’s a secondary gig is a strategy for growing their business without the riskiness of going “all in.” If you’re interested in turning your side hustle into a full-time career, this is a relatively safe way to transition towards it.
Side hustles are nothing new, and some of the most unsuspecting people have rocked these part-time gigs. Renowned author Franz Kafka, who penned classic stories like Metamorphosis and The Trial, used writing as his side hustle while he sold insurance. Similarly, award-winning composer Philip Glass drove a cab as he developed his music. If you feel discouraged—like you’re too busy with everyday life to ever dream of taking on something new—know that you don’t have to devote hours every night. Twenty minutes or half an hour a day adds up, too.
Need some creative side hustle ideas?
Remember, the point of a side hustle is that it’s something you can do after your full-time work. So when you’re thinking of a creative project to pursue, think about activities that you already like to do. Some of the best earn passive income, meaning that you can earn money without being actively involved. The possibilities are endless, but here are five side hustle ideas to get you started.
Create logos using freelance services sites like Fiverr.
With Fiverr, you can advertise creative services like graphic design, presentation design, and invitations, just to name a few. It’s a great way to get your name out there if you're new to the freelance design world.
Channel your crafty talents into an Etsy shop.
Do you excel at creating jewelry? Like throwing pottery but don’t have anywhere to store it? Use Etsy to market and sell them to people around the world.
Use your photography skills to take professional portraits for people.
Everyone wants to look good in their social media profiles, and it starts with a great picture. If you’ve got a camera, use it to take professional headshots for those looking to boost their online persona.
Don’t stop your photography with people—try pets, too.
Many pet owners love glamour shots of their furry friends. Transition your photography setup from people to pets and you’ve got a whole new range of clientele.
Share what you know.
Whether you're an expert in Photoshop or are an amazing illustrator, you too can impart your wisdom on others. E-learning site Skillshare allows you to start teaching for free. Once your class is live, you can start earning income right away. (This is a great example of passive income at work.)
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