What is a Side Hustle?

A side hustle is any activity or venture you do outside of your regular job to earn extra income. It’s often flexible, passion-driven, and can be scaled into a full-time business.

A side hustle is quite simply a small part-time job, in which you provide a service or create something to be sold.

They can include things like evening babysitting, knitting scarves, answering emails, and delivering food.

In side hustles, you are the boss and you decide how much you can take on at any one time. These days 37% of working Americans have a side hustle according to a Bankrate survey from 2018.

How to Get Started with a Side Hustle

Embarking on a side hustle journey can be exciting and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start:

1. Identify Your Skills and Interests

   •   Think about what you’re good at or passionate about.

   •   Consider skills like writing, graphic design, photography, or even hobbies like crafting or gaming.

2. Research Opportunities

   •   Look for side hustles that align with your skills.

   •   Popular options include freelancing, selling products, starting an online store, or creating content.

3. Set Clear Goals

   •   Determine why you want a side hustle: extra income, financial independence, or pursuing a passion.

   •   Set realistic income goals and timelines.

4. Start Small

   •   Begin with a manageable commitment.

   •   Dedicate a few hours a week to your side hustle to avoid burnout.

5. Leverage Online Platforms

   •   Use platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Etsy to showcase your services or products.

   •   If selling, try marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or Shopify.

6. Create a Plan

   •   Outline steps to launch your side hustle, including tools or resources you’ll need.

   •   Develop a schedule to balance your side hustle with your main job or responsibilities.

7. Build a Presence

   •   Create a social media profile or website to promote your side hustle.

   •   Share your work, engage with your audience, and establish credibility.

8. Start Networking

   •   Connect with others in your niche to learn and gain insights.

   •   Join online communities or local groups related to your side hustle.

9. Test and Adjust

   •   Experiment with different approaches to see what works best.

   •   Learn from feedback and make improvements as needed.

10. Stay Consistent

   •   Commit to your side hustle regularly to build momentum.

   •   Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.

Remember: Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mindset and a little dedication, you can create a steady additional income stream that fits seamlessly into your life.

So, you’re looking for those soft life, lazy girl side hustles that pay well? You know, the ones where you can sip iced lattes in bed, scroll TikTok for “research,” and somehow make six figures while barely lifting a finger? Sure, they’re totally out there—just waiting for you to grace them with your unmatched minimal effort. Here is the secret to getting rich by manifesting alone.

Skills Needed for a Successful Side Hustle

1. Time Management: Balance your main job, hustle, and personal life effectively.

2. Self-Motivation: Stay consistent, even without immediate results.

3. Marketing: Learn basic promotion strategies, such as social media marketing or SEO.

4. Financial Management: Track earnings and expenses for profitability.

5. Adaptability: Be open to learning new skills and pivoting if needed.

Why Do I Need a Side Hustle?

There isn’t one single way to answer the question of why you need a side hustle. Because the truth is there are a lot of different reasons and not all of them will apply to every person. But here are a few reasons why you need a side hustle.

Paying Off Debt – A shocking 80% of all Americans are carrying debt and that number is only growing each year. Having a side hustle in which you’re bringing in more money than just your traditional 9 to 5 job will give you the chance to pay that debt off faster and you are less likely to accumulate more debt.

Financial Security – The sad truth is that no one’s job is 100% guaranteed to keep going forever. Companies downsize and close all the time and there is no guarantee that this won’t happen to you.

Having a side hustle when you lose your job could be all the difference in these emergency situations. With a side hustle, you’re guaranteeing that you will still have some money coming in while you look for a new job.

It may not be a lot but it also might cover your monthly car payment which will allow you to look for jobs further from home.

Helping Your Children’s Future – These days many families can’t afford to send their children to college without massive loans that they will spend the next couple of decades paying off.

With a side hustle though you can start setting a little bit of money aside for your kids’ college funds and help break the cycle of debt for them.

Build Wealth – If you are one of the 20% of Americans that is debt-free then a side hustle is an opportunity for you to build wealth and have more saved for your retirement. You might even be able to retire earlier than average.

You Can Make So Much More – Depending on what your side hustle is you can charge much, much more than you would ever get from an employer.

Social Media Managers barely make minimum wage in large corporations but if you’re doing it on your own you can expect to make $50 an hour easily.

Get Paid to do Something You Love – If you’re already doing something you love then congratulations, you’ve achieved something that many can only dream about. For everyone else though, a side hustle is an opportunity to get paid to do something you love.

That might mean doing guided foodie tours through your town on Saturdays or teaching kids how to golf. For some, it’s also a way to engage in their hobby without feeling overwhelming guilt.

When you’re making money from your knitting you don’t have to feel guilty about spending $400 on yarn in a month because you’ll be making that money back and then some.

How Do I Start a Side Hustle?

As with many things in life, starting a side hustle will start with a list. Make a list of all your skills and hobbies, including things you love like pets. Don’t leave anything out.

Consider the tasks you do at work, things you like to do on your day off, and everything in between.

Things on this list that you might not think apply include reading books, bird watching, playing video games, and posting on Tiktok.

All of these things can be converted into side hustles.

Next, make a list of all the equipment you have. A camera, even the one on your phone can count. Your laptop and PC count too. A collection of telescopes and binoculars might come in handy as well. Maybe what you have is a lawnmower and a bush trimmer.

Your car should be on the list too. I’m a firm believer that you shouldn’t spend thousands on a side hustle until you know it’s something that will work out for you.

Now with these this list in hand consider how you can get paid with them. No, you won’t be invited to shoot a wedding on your iPhone, but if you’ve got a good eye you could set up social media photoshoots in a local park.

If you love gardening you could start growing windowsill herb kits to sell or sell packets of catnip to local cat lovers.

Also, don’t be afraid to cross something off your list. Your job might include calling people but it’s actually something you hate doing. Don’t do it as your side hustle.

Because there are so many different ways for you to do side hustles it’s ok to say no to the things you don’t like doing. Find something you enjoy and put it out there.

Don’t be afraid to be niche. I’ve seen side hustles where people do nothing but create custom maps for Dungeons and Dragons campaigns and they make hundreds of dollars doing it every month. That could be you.

Once you’ve got your final list made start with one that you think you would enjoy the most. Let your friends and family know what you’re doing, advertise in local Facebook groups, and get started.

If it is a product you’re hoping to sell then you might need to make a few to get started so you have images to show.

I can promise you that once you get started in the world of side hustles you are never going to look back. It happened to me, and it can happen to you too.

Ideas For Side Hustles

Here are some “lazy” (or low-effort) side hustle ideas that still have income potential:

Sell Print-on-Demand Products

   •   Design simple t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags using platforms like Teespring or Printify.

   •   No inventory, no shipping—just upload designs and earn passive income.

Offer Freelance Services on Fiverr

   •   List easy skills like proofreading, simple graphic design, or writing captions.

   •   Set boundaries for quick, low-effort tasks that don’t take up too much time.

Test Websites and Apps

   •   Use platforms like UserTesting or TryMyUI to get paid for testing websites and giving feedback.

   •   Simple, quick, and done from your couch.

Sell Stock Photos or Videos

   •   Use your phone to take simple photos or videos and upload them to stock sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.

   •   Perfect for passive income if you already enjoy snapping pics.

Rent Out Stuff You Already Own

   •   Rent out your car (Turo), camera gear (ShareGrid), or even your clothes (Style Lend).

   •   Minimal work for money rolling in.

Affiliate Marketing

   •   Share links for products you love on your social media, blog, or YouTube channel.

   •   Earn commissions for each sale—just keep posting links!

Virtual Assisting for Simple Tasks

   •   Take on tasks like scheduling emails or organizing spreadsheets for small business owners.

   •   Use platforms like Upwork or Belay to find gigs that fit your skill set.

Get Paid to Watch Videos or Take Surveys

   •   Platforms like Swagbucks and InboxDollars pay you to watch ads or take quick surveys.

   •   It’s not huge money, but it’s easy and mindless.

Resell Thrift Finds

   •   Pick up cool items at thrift stores and resell them on eBay, Poshmark, or Mercari.

   •   Minimal effort if you enjoy shopping anyway.

Create Digital Products

   •   Sell templates, guides, or printables on Etsy or Gumroad.

   •   Make it once, sell it forever.

Digital Marketing 

Faceless Digital Marketing 

Travel Business 

Blogger

Influencer

Drop Shipping 

Notary 

Footagraphy

Sell digital products 

Tarot reading 

Tax preparation 

Resume writing 

Sell pix/videos (adult content)

These side hustles are perfect if you’re not looking to overwork yourself but still want a little extra cash flow!

Why You Need a Side Hustle As Additional Source of Income

Including a side hustle as an additional source of income is a smart move for several reasons:

1. Financial Security

   •   A side hustle provides a safety net in case of unexpected expenses or job loss.

   •   Diversifying your income streams reduces your reliance on a single paycheck.

2. Accelerate Financial Goals

   •   Use your side hustle income to pay off debt, save for big purchases, or build an emergency fund faster.

   •   It’s also a great way to fund hobbies, travel, or other “wants” without touching your primary income.

3. Build Long-Term Wealth

   •   Invest the extra earnings from your side hustle to grow wealth over time.

   •   Many side hustles have the potential to evolve into passive income streams.

4. Flexibility and Freedom

   •   Most side hustles offer the freedom to work on your own terms and schedule.

   •   You can turn your skills or passions into profit, making it feel less like “work.”

5. Learn New Skills

   •   A side hustle can help you develop skills that enhance your personal or professional growth.

   •   These skills may even open doors to new career opportunities.

6. Test Business Ideas

   •   A side hustle is a low-risk way to test a business concept before fully committing to it.

   •   If it takes off, you could turn it into a full-time venture.

7. Empowerment and Independence

   •   Earning extra money on your own terms gives you a sense of accomplishment and control over your finances.

   •   It’s a great way to boost your confidence and personal growth.

8. Beat Inflation

   •   With rising costs of living, an additional income stream helps you stay ahead financially.

9. Pursue Passion Projects

   •   A side hustle allows you to turn hobbies or interests into income while doing something you genuinely enjoy.

Legal Things to Do For Your Side Hustle

When starting a side hustle, it’s important to take care of legal matters to protect yourself and ensure your business complies with regulations.

Here’s a checklist of legal things to do:

1. Choose a Legal Structure

   •   Decide how to structure your side hustle:

      •   Sole Proprietorship: Easiest to set up, but you’re personally liable.

      •   LLC (Limited Liability Company): Protects your personal assets.

      •   Partnership or Corporation: If you’re working with others.

2. Register Your Business

   •   Check if you need to register your business name with your local or state government.

   •   For an LLC or corporation, file the appropriate paperwork with your state.

3. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   •   Obtain an EIN from the IRS (free) if you plan to hire employees or want to keep personal and business finances separate.

4. Obtain Necessary Licenses or Permits

   •   Depending on your industry, you may need specific licenses or permits.

   •   Examples: Selling food, operating a daycare, or providing professional services.

5. Open a Separate Business Bank Account

   •   Keep personal and business finances separate to simplify taxes and protect your personal assets.

6. Understand Your Tax Obligations

   •   Track all income and expenses related to your side hustle.

   •   Pay estimated quarterly taxes if you expect to owe more than $1,000 in federal income tax.

   •   Research self-employment tax requirements (e.g., Social Security and Medicare).

7. Get Insurance

   •   Depending on your side hustle, consider liability insurance, product insurance, or professional indemnity insurance.

   •   Protects you from lawsuits or claims related to your business activities.

8. Protect Your Intellectual Property

   •   Trademark your business name or logo to prevent others from using it.

   •   Copyright original content (photos, writing, designs) if applicable.

9. Create Contracts

   •   Use written agreements for clients, customers, or partners to clarify terms, expectations, and payment terms.

   •   Contracts help prevent disputes and protect your rights.

10. Follow Local Zoning Laws

   •   If you’re running your side hustle from home, check local zoning laws or homeowner association rules to ensure compliance.

11. Maintain Accurate Records

   •   Keep records of income, expenses, contracts, and licenses for at least 3-5 years.

   •   Use accounting software like QuickBooks or Wave for tracking.

12. Comply with Online Sales Rules

   •   If selling online, follow platform rules (e.g., Etsy, eBay, Shopify) and collect sales tax where required.

   •   Some states require you to collect sales tax for online sales.

By taking these legal steps, you’ll set a strong foundation for your side hustle, reduce risks, and operate with confidence. It may also be worth consulting with a legal or tax professional to ensure everything is in order.

Challenges of a Side Hustle

1. Time Constraints: Juggling a side hustle with your full-time job and personal life can be challenging.

2. Burnout Risk: Overworking can lead to exhaustion if not managed well.

3. Inconsistent Income: Earnings may fluctuate, especially in the early stages.

4. Learning Curve: You may need to learn new skills like marketing or financial management.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about side hustles, from what they are to how to start, succeed, and scale them.

Why Start a Side Hustle?

1. Additional Income: Supplement your primary salary to meet financial goals or cover expenses.

2. Financial Security: Diversify income sources to reduce reliance on one job.

3. Pursue Passions: Turn hobbies or skills into profit.

4. Build Wealth: Use extra income to save, invest, or fund big dreams.

5. Test a Business Idea: Low-risk way to try entrepreneurship before diving in full-time.

Types of Side Hustles

1. Online Hustles:

      •   Freelancing (writing, graphic design, etc.)

      •   Content creation (YouTube, TikTok, blogging)

      •   Selling products (Etsy, Amazon, dropshipping)

      •   Affiliate marketing

      •   Online tutoring or teaching

2. Service-Based Hustles:

      •   Photography

      •   Cleaning or organizing services

      •   Personal training or coaching

      •   Pet sitting or dog walking

3. Passive Income Hustles:

      •   Renting property (Airbnb, Turo)

      •   Creating digital products (ebooks, courses)

      •   Stock photography or selling music licenses

4. Creative Hustles:

      •   Crafting or making handmade goods

      •   Podcasting

      •   Designing templates or printables

5. Traditional Hustles:

      •   Babysitting or childcare

      •   Food delivery (Uber Eats, DoorDash)

      •   Rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft)

How to Start a Side Hustle

1. Identify Your Skills and Interests:

      •   Choose something you’re good at or passionate about.

      •   Consider the time and effort you’re willing to invest.

2. Research the Market:

      •   Identify demand for your skills or products.

      •   Research competitors to see what works and where you can improve.

3. Set Clear Goals:

      •   Define your financial and personal objectives.

      •   Determine how much time you can commit each week.

4. Start Small:

      •   Begin with a manageable workload while keeping your full-time job.

      •   Test your idea before scaling up.

5. Leverage Platforms:

      •   Use marketplaces (Etsy, Fiverr, Upwork) or social media to promote your hustle.

      •   Build an online presence to reach your target audience.

Skills Needed for a Successful Side Hustle

1. Time Management: Balance your main job, hustle, and personal life effectively.

2. Self-Motivation: Stay consistent, even without immediate results.

3. Marketing: Learn basic promotion strategies, such as social media marketing or SEO.

4. Financial Management: Track earnings and expenses for profitability.

5. Adaptability: Be open to learning new skills and pivoting if needed.

Legal and Financial Considerations

1. Register Your Business: Depending on your hustle, you may need to register a business name or entity.

2. Understand Taxes: Keep track of earnings and save for self-employment taxes.

3. Get Licenses or Permits: Ensure compliance with local regulations.

4. Open a Business Bank Account: Keep personal and business finances separate.

5. Insure Your Business: Protect yourself with liability insurance if applicable.

Challenges of a Side Hustle

1. Time Constraints: Juggling a side hustle with your full-time job and personal life can be challenging.

2. Burnout Risk: Overworking can lead to exhaustion if not managed well.

3. Inconsistent Income: Earnings may fluctuate, especially in the early stages.

4. Learning Curve: You may need to learn new skills like marketing or financial management.

Tips for Success On Your Side Hustle Business

1. Start with a Plan: Define clear goals, milestones, and a strategy.

2. Prioritize Quality: Focus on delivering value to customers or clients.

3. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to market your side hustle.

4. Track Performance: Use tools like Google Analytics, spreadsheets, or apps to monitor progress.

5. Outsource When Needed: Delegate tasks to save time and focus on growth.

Scaling Your Side Hustle

1. Automate Processes: Use tools or software to handle repetitive tasks (e.g., email marketing, scheduling).

2. Hire Help: Bring on freelancers or assistants as you grow.

3. Expand Offerings: Add more products or services to increase revenue streams.

4. Invest in Growth: Reinvest some profits into marketing, tools, or training.

5. Transition Full-Time: If your side hustle earns enough, consider turning it into your main job.

Examples of Successful Side Hustles

1. Freelance Designer: Started creating logos on Fiverr and grew into a full-time design agency.

2. Handmade Products: Selling homemade candles on Etsy, leading to a thriving online store.

3. Content Creator: Started a TikTok sharing budgeting tips and now earns through sponsorships and digital products.

A side hustle is more than just a way to earn extra cash—it’s an opportunity to explore your passions, gain independence, and achieve financial goals. With the right strategy, dedication, and mindset, your side hustle could even become your main hustle!

Incorporating a side hustle isn’t just about making more money—it’s about creating options, achieving goals faster, and setting yourself up for long-term financial success.

Having a side hustle in your life isn’t just about earning extra cash—it’s about building financial security, exploring passions, and unlocking new opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to accelerate your goals, gain independence, or simply add a cushion to your budget, a side hustle can be a game-changer.

With the flexibility to start small and grow over time, it’s an empowering way to take control of your finances and create a future that aligns with your ambitions.

So why wait? Start investing in yourself today and watch the possibilities unfold.