Some people choose to quit their 9 to 5 jobs to become self-employed, but that is not always an option for everyone. However, if you want to try out being self-employed on top of your 9-5, you should definitely find a side hustle that works for you and give it a go.
Whether you are waiting for your entrepreneurial moment or just want some extra cash because you’re not good at saving money, side gigs make a great option. The key to a good side hustle is to make sure it is actually profitable or else, it’s just a waste of time.
Beginning a side hustle can be intimidating at first, so here are the five best choices to try out when starting out.
1. Become a Content Creator
Creating content is a way to creatively express yourself while earning money through several different mediums. You can create videos, start live streaming, or begin blogging. There are many platforms to choose from when deciding where to place your content, including YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, and WordPress.
If you’re particularly interested in earning money from playing games online, we wrote an article on this topic already, so do go and check it out.
At the end of the day, whatever you decide to do, it will take time to build up a following and get sponsors or subscriptions to start making money, so do not expect to profit from becoming a content creator right away. Becoming profitable through creating content takes a lot of upfront effort and a ton of patience.
You can even use your platform to promote what you do during your 9 to 5 job or any other side hustles you are doing. You should try to use more than one platform so that your side gig as a content creator becomes as lucrative as possible.
2. Try Digital Freelancing
The digital freelancer market is growing quickly and is a great way to earn extra income. There are plenty of popular skills that pertain to digital freelancing, including social media management, graphic design, video editing, writing and editing, and web design.
Most of us have skills that can be useful in some way, shape, or form when it comes to digital freelancing. You could even be a virtual assistant if you consider yourself a jack of all trades or do not want to pin yourself down in a specific niche.
As a digital freelancer, you can set your own rates, make your own hours, and decide how much work you want to take on. It is a flexible side hustle with a lot of opportunities to grow.
3. Become a Pet Sitter or Babysitter
If you love animals or kids, consider pet sitting or babysitting when you are not working at your 9 to 5 job. Parents often need a much-deserved break from their children, and pet parents require a trustworthy person to watch their furry babies when they are away.
For pet sitting, you can offer dog walking services, house sitting along with pet sitting, doggy day care services, and dog boarding done at your home. Unlike pet sitting, babysitting will probably require a background check and first aid and CPR training.
The pay will vary depending on your location, but do not undervalue yourself when setting your rates. Referrals from friends and family are helpful, especially when getting started. Building trust and a relationship with your clients will help you push your side business even further.
4. Start Selling Things Online
Let your inner entrepreneur soar and create your own eCommerce business. You can use sites like Etsy and Shopify to start selling your wares online or even begin on Facebook Marketplace.
Sell something you are passionate about so that you enjoy what you are doing, including things like pottery, knitting, and upcycling. If you are thrifty, you can even resell old clothes, decor, and furniture.
If you do not want to manage a physical inventory, you can try getting passive income by selling digital products. Once you have created a digital product, it can provide you with virtually unlimited earning potential. Digital products include things like printable journals, calendar printouts, and Photoshop presets.
The opportunities as an online seller are endless. You could also try affiliate marketing, which is when you refer people to a product or service. You can do this through social media, a website, and even word of mouth.
5. Look into Delivery Driving and Ride Sharing
A fairly easy way to earn some extra cash on the side is by becoming a delivery driver or ride-share driver, especially if you live in a busy city with a lot going on.
You can try your hand at food delivery, grocery delivery, or other delivery services and errands, depending on the app you want to use. All you need is a car or sometimes a bike and some free time on your hands.
Set the time frame that you are available, whenever you have time away from your 9 to 5 job. Then, you will be matched with deliveries or potential riders in your area. You can set your own hours and work at your own pace.
Uber and Lyft are popular options when getting into the delivery and ride-sharing side hustle. You even have the potential to earn tips when doing this.
Conclusion
Whatever you choose as your side hustle, make sure it is something that you enjoy and will not stress you out. You do not want to take away time and energy from your main 9 to 5 job unless you are attempting to make the switch to self-employment.
When you are starting out, it is important to remember to set boundaries so that you have time for work, your side hustle, and yourself.
