Happy new month and happy new week! It’s August already! We are grateful for this new month. Today we are all about side hustles. You may have started one, are planning to start one, or have been doing one for a while. Side hustles are important as they boost your income, bringing more financial freedom and flexibility into your life. You are no longer entirely reliant on the income from your day job. Examples of side hustles include: offering delivery services, printing on demand, reselling property eg cars, social media managing, freelance writing, etc. Here are some tips to ensure you thrive in your venture:
- Figure out when and where you want to start your side hustle: It is very important to think through what you want to do; consider your passions and the nature of your existing day job. Will you be able to comfortably squeeze in more hours without compromising on your day job? Is it something you enjoy doing? Where will you work from? Online, at home or even rent out a space? It is essential to be able to answer these questions before starting out even as you expand.
- Have a budget and financial plan: As much as this is a side hustle, it is serious business. You are spending hours of your precious time investing in it and who knows, it may end up being your main hustle. Calculate how much you need to get started and what equipment you will need if any. It’s also important to have your financial goals written down and strategies you have set to achieve them.
- Market your business: Marketing is a continuous process; it never stops. You are your own best marketer, so tell your friends and networks about it. They already know you, you have built rapport, so it’s easier for them to trust you, therefore buying from you. Social media is major right now, so invest wisely in it. Also traditional ways of marketing; offline strategies i.e. business cards, flyers and posters are essential.
- Keep learning: Attending short courses, seminars and general research on your areas of interest help you grow. It is important to be aware of market trends, new ways of doing things and overall, sharpen your skills as you go.
- All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy: This proverb has never been more true. It is very important rest and also take time to do other things you enjoy doing. Scrolling a little on social media never hurt anyone, if you can immerse yourself in your hobbies every so often, do so. Indulging in these fun activities and resting, rejuvenate you and even increase your creativity and productivity.