A side hustle is simply a part time business–it’s nothing new. But it is great way for people that aspire to start their own business, to do so without having to commit all of their time and resources into one bucket. The ultimate goal is to start the side hustle small and grow it into a full time business over time.
Starting a business is a major commitment and requires a lot of time. For this reason many that aspire to embark in this area don’t take action because they think in the lines of all or nothing; either quitting their job to start a business, or just hope for a lucky opportunity to arise.
Having a job shouldn’t keep us from moving our goals forward.
Prime Candidates for a Side Hustle
Everybody is a candidate. However, I believe that the prime candidates are those who have a main/steady source of income already in line. This includes a 9-5′ers, or business owners.
9-5′ers. One of the beauties of most 9-5 jobs is that work starts at 9am and stops at 5pm (or whenever you start/shut down each day). Besides whatever life has in store for you outside of business hours, you can carve out time to dedicate specifically to your side hustle.
Business Owners. Business owners that have a solid operation and are able to approach their business like a job and not a baby (requiring around the clock attention) are ideal candidates for implementing a side hustle.
Chasing the next check is a commonality for many small business owners–which typically takes up most of their time. Anyone in this position is not a prime candidate. Why? Well because their time is better spent on the development of their main source of income.
Again, everybody is a candidate, but not everybody is a prime candidate.
Why Start a Side Hustle (Part Time Business) Over a Full Time Business?
It’s all about resources. Again, most people can’t afford to just quit their full time job. So, a side hustle allows a person to grow their business and strengthen their operation over a longer course of time–without having to assume the full load of a traditional/full time startup.
[Some] Important Considerations
- PACE. You dedicate a chunk of time to your side hustle each day or week. There’s no requirement to work around the clock. It’s also important to note that developing and managing a business at a slower pace will likely create a slower growth rate.
- SKILL DEVELOPMENT. Since this isn’t a full time gig, you have the time to develop the skills needed to establish an effective operation.
- SECURITY. Nurturing a business on the side can potentially become a significant source of income.
- LONGEVITY. This can one day be your sole source of employment.
- RISK. There’s a chance that your business won’t be viable. This is a potential for any business, both full time and part time. Risks should be understood (calculated) but not avoided.
- RESOURCES. When business picks up, you may find that you have more than you can handle yourself. It’s wise to build a team of people that you can outsource work to.
Don’t Get Caught in the Negative Web
This part goes completely left. But I think it’s important to mention…
There are a number of websites online that are dedicated specifically to whining about their 9-5 jobs. They have aspirations to become entrepreneurs but choose to spend their time complaining about how much they hate their job, but do nothing about it. Don’t get caught in that trap. Joining those pity parties will surely keep your situation as is.
I admit, I found myself starting to take part in that nonsense earlier this year. Upon my discovery that I was going down that track, I stopped wasting my time and I started thinking about what would become my side hustle…
My Side Hustle
You may have noticed a decrease in postings here over the past few months. To my fellow bloggers–you may have noticed a decrease in my presence at your website over the past few months. Well, it wasn’t a result of laziness. I’ve been working on the development of my own side hustle called GROWTHEFFECT.COM–a web design and digital marketing company that focusing on helping small businesses capture the eye of their local markets. As I’ve developed this business (still in final stages of development), I’ve done so by dedicating scheduled blocks of time to it, while maintaining my 9-5 job.
It’s been an interesting, fun, challenging and educational journey. Not only have I had to build the back-end operations, team, legal stuff, website (still under development) but I’ve had to do so while managing everything else in life. I’ve been able to make this happen by following a very deliberate schedule, which included a decrease of time spent in some of my other endeavors.
It’s not a race. The side hustle is the crock pot version of developing a business…not the microwave version.
It’s become common these days for people to take action after getting laid off, or some other life changing event. But why wait…make a move while momentum is on your side.
DISCUSSION – What are your thoughts on the side hustle? I imagine that some will despise the idea because it requires spreading concentration rather than focusing it in one area. However, I suspect some will find that this method works best for them. Being that this was only an introductory level article, please share any suggestions you may have on this subject? And of course…if you have a side hustle – please tell us about it.
Also see: 5 steps to a successful side hustle
{ 112 comments… read them below or add one }
I think side hustles are great, especially if you can’t or don’t want to put in the hours required for a full time business. They also let you test the waters to see if your business idea is viable and something you can see yourself doing full time.
I have a couple of side hustles, my blog being one. They give me the opportunity to express myself and help people in different ways, all while putting a couple extra dollars in my pocket. I’ve always had hustles and side hustles since I can remember. They made it to where every time I get a “real job” I end up asking myself why I’m working to build somebody else’s empire when I can be building my own.
But, I think the main thing to focus on with a side hustle is focus and time management because it’s easy to get side tracked or think that you don’t have enough time in the day to work on your side hustle. But, where there’s a will, there’s a way. If it’s something you really want to do, you’ll make time for it regardless of what distractions may come your way. Side hustles are also good ways to build your skills in areas that you are interested in.
*Side note* I also have a marketing company! It’s a great way to help small business owners because many of them have no idea how to market and brand themselves in today’s digital marketplace.
Keisha recently posted..Scared Money: Overcoming Fear To Get What You Really Want
Hey Keisha,
Thanks for dropping by and sharing your thoughts and experience on “the side hustle”. Sounds like you have some experience in this area–so I appreciate you bringing your expertise to the table.
What you said about testing/building your skills and in areas you are interested is important. Because if you have a interest…or maybe a passion – creating a side business can be a fulfilling endeavor.
Hope things are well. I’m interested in learning more about all the hustles you have going on and see how we can help each other out.
PEACE
No prob! You can reach me at keisha [at] newschoolsuccess.com
Keisha recently posted..Out With The Old, In With New
Perfect. Thanks Keisha!
I think side hustle is a way to go!
The reason being you can continue with what you are doing so your monetary cashflow is continued and also you can try out different things and different ventures as long as you don’t affect your personal life a great deal!
I am also working onto a part time side hustle which if goes well would be good for me and my family and my consumers as well!
Devine Power recently posted..Type of Physical Therapy Assistant Schools and Physical Therapy Assistant Requirements
Hey Jk,
Man, That’s awesome!! Congratulations on the start-up man! I’m really digging the design of both of your websites. The new design of Hustlers Notebook is clean and well laid out! Growth Effect is incredible as well. You’ve been putting in a lot of hard-work, my friend. And it shows throughout both sites.
Knowing now how much actually goes into building a website, I commend you for being able to balance a 9-5, all of your other life duties, and get two websites designed! You are serious about the hustle man! That’s inspiring to some like me just entering the game. I’m not so sure I’d be able to do the same right now, to be honest with you. However, I’d never say that I never could; I know that when push comes to shove, you learn quickly to do what you have to do based on human survival instincts.
I totally agree with you that if an individual does decide to take that plunge and start a side hustle, that there needs to be a list of things to be taken into consideration. You’ve managed to list six awesome things to contemplate, if another person was starting a side hustle and was wise, they pay close attention to this post.
All in all, I say you’ve managed to kick your side hustle off with a bang, man! Kudos to you for that! Most definitely wishing you much success in the endeavor! Way to go, Jk. You’re showing us how it should definitely be done.
Deeone recently posted..It’s Not the End, Butterfly! Part 2
Hey Deeone,
Thanks for the feedback on the design here and over at GE. GE took me a lot of time…more so in thought more than in doing to get the design how I really wanted it. I am pleased with the result…I just hope i don’t get the itch to start changing things around soon.
And, as soon as your ready for your next big redesign… just let me know. I got your back. I need some more portfolio shots and would love to help you out (same terms as we’ve already discussed!)
If/when we do the redesign of your site…we can do a screens hare so I can show you some of the basics that I’ve learned. It’s not hard at all (after a while!)
Thank you for the kind words man and support.
PEACE
Sounds like a plan, man. I simply want to make sure my schedule with the new changes work better, and then I think it’s a go! I appreciate you also my friend… all that is, is that iron sharpening iron going on! Gotta love it!
Deeone recently posted..Own Your Butterfly Wings!
Absolutely man. No rush… whenever the time is right!
Iron sharpening iron!
PEACE
Congratulations JK. I knew you were up to something.
I completely agree that everyone should have a side hustle; especially those of us who work 9-5. In fact, I think it is even more important. Who knows when you will be laid off from that 9-5. It is better to create a new job while you have one.
Lisa H. recently posted..If You’ve Never Failed, You’ve Never Lived
Hey Lisa,
9-5′ers might as well build a little security for ourselves right? What better way to do that then to start a side hustle.
Yeah, I’ve been secretly cooking up Growth Effect off the radar. It makes the process pressure-less and more relaxing that way.
I recall you telling me that you do some web design. Maybe we can collab one day!
Good on ya, Jk. GrowthEffect has a catchy name and a sharp angle. I’d wish you the best, but you’ve already taken steps to achieve it.
Love the crockpot metaphor, too. It’s like side hustle chili. A little bit of this, a little bit of that, cooked slowly over time, will result in a sweet burn that satisfies (and goes well with cornbread)!
Carpe diem.
Brian Driggs recently posted..Derek Neighbors on Serendipity
Hey Brian,
So you like the name Growth Effect, huh? It took me so long to figure out a business name that it was sick. The challenge with that is that I needed the business name in order to buy the domain…need the domain in order to building the site.. But obviously I got it worked out! Thanks for the positive feedback.
You liked my metaphor?….well I like how you took it to the next level:
“Love the crockpot metaphor, too. It’s like side hustle chili. A little bit of this, a little bit of that, cooked slowly over time, will result in a sweet burn that satisfies (and goes well with cornbread)!”
Thanks awesome man. Thanks for the support Brian! Best to you buddy.
I was wondering when you were going to start a business. I guess it’s now
Wish you all the best. Awesome name (hard to believe it wasn’t already taken, but then again, neither was Perfecting Parenthood or my latest online side hustle that I will be unveiling hopefully in November. I hope you’ll continue to inspire us by documenting your progress here or on the Growth Effect site. Again, best!
Alex | Perfecting Dad recently posted..How To Escape From Any Maze: Blindfolded! (For The Family Trapped In A Corn Maze Last Week)
Alex,
First off, can’t wait to see what you will be unveiling in November! If I can be of any help Alex…just let me know. I know whatever you have up your sleeve will be quality stuff and intelligently put together – that’s just the kind of guy you are.
I will certainly keep a side hustle progress report going on from time to time. Maybe quarterly…heck, maybe monthly! But I think it’s important to track results for accountability sake.
Thanks for always supporting the cause my friend.
Congrats on the new site and the new hustle that you have grown to have as well. Looking forward to seeing the growth of your business.
Justice Wordlaw IV recently posted..Your Email Campaign Is In The Dirt. How To Get Clean It Now
Hey Justice,
Thanks for the congrats. It’s pretty exciting time for me because I’ve had this goal for a while. Always feels like freedom once I accomplish a phase of a goal and move on to the phase. The next phase, of course, is the generating revenue. I don’t fear the part of finding business…my biggest challenge will be the time to run the business. Thankfully I have a team on deck!
Thanks for the kind words Justice.
PEACE
This is great JK!
I am so happy to hear about this, and indeed its been a long time coming. What can I say buddy, this is definitely a step in the right direction. Be sure we got a lot of collaboration to do …been admiring your graphical signatures on HN from inception, didn’t know you got a whole lot more to offer the world.
Well done!
Tito Philips, Jnr. recently posted..Coping With Uncertainty, Fear And Doubt
Hey Tito,
Yes, yes, yes – it’s been a long time coming. I remember one of our first conversations more than a year ago when I told you that I wanted to start something…just wasn’t sure what it was. Well, I allowed my curiosity, skills, and interest guide me to what later became Growth Effect. Slow process – but what’s the rush!
Thank you for the nice notes on my design skills…I’m learning more and more every day! I’m absolutely down to collaborate with you when the time pops up.
PEACE
Jk,
My man! The guy who always practices what he preaches. I love what you said about starting a business whilst you have another main source of income – that’s what I’ve been recommending people do as well. The days of job security are long gone. I just wish that people wouldn’t moan and not do anything about it. I hate that. We can all change our situations. It’s not easy to work and set up a side hustle, but it can be done if people are willing to put the time and effort in (which most are not because they are comfortable with whatever they are already doing).
It takes a certain person to do this, a person like yourself. I’ve seen that many want to do it but few get anywhere. It’s all about patience, perseverance and maintaining focus (easier said than done!).
Inspiring post man, hope this encourages more people to get into the side hustle.
Speak soon,
Rob
The Biz Blogger recently posted..Multiple income streams: The reality
Hey Robert,
Nice chattin with you today on GChat.. but we need to jump on that Skype soon as well.
I tell you want – when you made this statement: “The guy who always practices what he preaches.”…I smiled.
That’s what I try to do. That’s what I do. Instead of just talking about doing stuff, and complaining and hoping and wishing…I try make it happen. I commit to it and do it. I do this because I find it frustrating to hear people talk a good game but never do anything with it.
You’re absolutely right man – there’s no security in the corporate world so us side hustlers stand to build some added security by having a biz on the side.
It’s not easy having a business on the side, I agree with you. But it is whatever we make of it. My goal is to make something great..so I have to give great effort.
Talk soon man!
PEACE
The side hustle is the real deal.
I wrote an article at Work Awesome that talked about the Accelerating Your Career After-Hours. I talked about several of my own side hustles and why any professional looking to survive or get ahead in the 21st Century Career.
I loved the quote I shared there. “If your only professional endeavor is to spend 8 hours a day at a desk shuffling papers for someone who is ready to retire, then your career is already in trouble.”
The nine to five job is there to pay the bills, the after-hours development is there to secure your future.
Bryce
Bryce Christiansen recently posted..Lead Without Followers, An Interview With Dave Ursillo (Part 1)
I love the way you think Bryce.
I actually went over to work awesome but couldn’t find your post. When you get a chance, if you can share the link with me that would be awesome. I’m very interested in learning what you have going on.
I loved your quote…but I really loved what you said underneath it: “The nine to five job is there to pay the bills, the after-hours development is there to secure your future.”
That’s a great way of thinking! Thanks for sharing you thoughts on this subject Bryce.
Sure thing.
You can find it here.
http://workawesome.com/career/accelerate-career-after-hours/
Bryce Christiansen recently posted..Lead Without Followers, An Interview With Dave Ursillo (Part II)
No go Tebow…………..he played at that other university in Florida and smoked us every time he played the Noles. Great athlete, great kid dang it…………….:)
Good looking site sir, you have done a great job and I like what you have cooked up. It will be interesting to follow your journey now. I certainly wish you nothing but success with it.
Good to see you today; hope else has been well my friend.
Bill Dorman recently posted..Can social survive without me?
No “go Tebow”? LOL – I tell you Bill, as I was writing this I was watching the Denver/Miami game. I was bored out of this world for the first 55 minutes, until the Tebow show came on!
Thank you for the kind words and well wishes, Bill. I’m plan on posting some progress reports quarterly, or on some schedule, so you’ll be able to keep up with the progress.
Hustling at its finest!
You bring up a veryyyy important point JK:
“It’s become common these days for people to take action after getting laid off, or some other life changing event. But why wait…make a move while momentum is on your side.”
Never wait for something to happen. Make a move and take action. With the Growth effect, you’re taking action even with a 9-5. Another key takeaway, time management. If you utilize your time efficiently you’d be surprised at how much can be done.
I know I’ll be following G effect.
Stay motivated!
Jeremy Brown recently posted..Unleash Your Hidden Potential [Video]
Hey Jeremy,
I’ve been VERY productive over the last 2.5 weeks. I stuck to my plan (that I laid out in my last post) and it’s been a game changer for me.
Sitting around and allowing our energy to waste away isn’t a life that I want to live. I figure I’m better to invest that time into something that has the potential to pay back some dividends.
Thanks for supporting the cause. If I can over be of assistance to you man – just let me know – I got your back!
I’ll be in the Bay The entire week of xmas. I’ll remind you as time get’s closer.
PEACE
Big Kudos to you, JK!
The side hustle, the part-time dream, and the progressive movement towards living for your dream is something I encourage people to do. You have broken free from the world of the normal and into the mix of the entrepreneur! You are adding to the backbone of the American Economy – The Small Business.
I encourage you to read the book, “EntreLeadership,” by Dave Ramsey. It has helped me a lot with my business. After reading this book, I added three clients to my account within a month! However, I know you are much better at expanding your business than I am.
I look forward to seeing how your business is growing and hope to be a client someday.
Keep up the hard work! Our economy needs it.
Elmer
Hello Elmer,
First off, I really like Dave Ramsey, so thanks for the book recommendation. I’ll add that to my ever-growing Amazon shopping cart (I usually let books build up for a month or two and make one big purchase).
I agree that small businesses really help stimulate the economy. My goal is to do just that – to help other small businesses better their situation and helping better my own.
It’s a win/win – right!
Thanks for the support man. Let’s catch up soon.
JK, you are really doing your thing bro. I think the idea of a side hustle is great. While some people think that it takes away your focus, I believe it is better to diversify. I like when you said, “Having a job shouldn’t keep us from moving our goals forward”. I agree 100%. I fall into that 9-5er category, while I’m at work my mind is constantly going and a lot of my thoughts are reminders to myself to keep grinding and to not become complacent.
I have definitely seen a lot of bloggers complaining about their day jobs. I to, got caught up in the madness as well. Like you said though, if you are unhappy about you’re 9-5, you must take action!
Like the rest of your posts, this one was very encouraging. Congrats again on the new endeavor, I’ll be looking forward to hearing about it some more. Hopefully we can connect again soon.
What’s up A!
Beware of those traps strategically set throughout YOUR world that keep your mind in a place of frustration, rather than in the midst of freedom. Those online job pity parties are enticing because we feel the same way, a lot of the time…but at the same time, most of those places are NOT action takers…nor do they promote it.
I’m not preaching here…really just reinforcing this to myself!
I have a lot of energy; I have big goals; I have a lot of wants; I have a lot of needs–these are my thirsts. While I’m fortunate to have a good job; one that many would love to have – I still know that I need to step up and continue to improve my situation in order to satisfy my thirsts .
I know you have aspirations to do things as well. I wish you the best in your journey in making those things happen.
It’s been awhile since we’ve been on the horn man. Let’s schedule a call in the next week or two.
PEACE
Hi JK,
This post reminds me of a philosophy I believe now. It’s from Jim Rohn, my favorite motivation person. The message is this: “The magic of part time and profits are better than wages.”
Everyone should get in on some side hustle if their full time work is not their main passion at the moment. For those of us with issues of not being able to leave our full time job yet, this is even more crucial to future success and peace of mind.
For me, my current job provides the income stability for my young family. But my heart is no longer there anymore. I just do my best at the main hustle and I am devoting every bit of free time on my side hustle which is my blog and personal development business. It is a young thing but I believe that will one day in the near future allow me to leave my job permanently.
Congrats on your side hustle. When its up let me know, I am interested to see how that can help me with my business.
BTW, thanks for the visit to my side on Steve Scott’s interview and the retweet as well.
There is one more important person scheduled for interview tomorrow and I sure hope you come as well.
Jimmy recently posted..What has Steve Scott got to say About Blogging?
Hey Jimmy,
It’s a fortunate situation to be in to be able to live off of your work income and still bring in income on the side. That’s a win/win–right!
The business is in operation, but I do have a short list of back-end and website things to get done over the course of the next 30 days or so. Besides that, the backbone is built!
The Scott interview was good man. At my earliest convenience I’ll stop by to check out who’s next on your list. Excited to see.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this subject.
Take care
Hi Jk,
Thanks for your encouragement. You are becoming one of my favorite blogger to follow. Although you write less these days, but what you say is thunderous.
I am happy that you are side hustler promoter. I am trying very hard on this thing now, but income is not there yet. Will be in time.
Looking forward to your next post.
Jimmy recently posted..What has Adrienne Smith got to say about Blogging?
Well my man, you know I’m quite excited for you, and the concept of a side hustle is an awesome one.
GrowthEffect is going to be one powerful experience after another, and I’m quite looking forward to being around to see how it all goes down.
Marcus
Marcus Sheridan-The Sales Lion recently posted..How to Create an Incredible Personal Branding Video that Sells YOU
Hey Marcus,
Thanks for the great energy man. Much appreciated.
As I’ve shared some of the small wins I’ve experienced so far…I know that many-many more are ahead of me.
Thanks for the support.
You never stand still JK, and that my friend, is first class. Makes you commendable rather than expendable. I think the side hustle actually is sensible as we tend to have one signature role in life but many related skills or fields of interest that we would gladly put into the pot of our time,desires, and resources. We often explore being who we are so why not add extra offerings to the equation and turn that into passionate products or services with us written all over them? And you never know where it could end up – who knows if a side hustle may turn out to be the main muscle and thrust of who we are meant to be on Earth. But, you won’t know if it don’t get to go. Wax on, wax off!
John Sherry recently posted..10 Big Questions That Lead To Sports Gold
And PS – what a cracking company name – Growth Effect. Now that conjours up a major go-get-’em kinda vibe. Great message, so you!
John Sherry recently posted..10 Big Questions That Lead To Sports Gold
The name too me months to come up with. But I tell you, once that surfaced in my mind – I knew it was it. It says so much…it says what I’m about and the direction of the company!
Thanks John
Hello John,
I try to keep going. When I don’t push myself…I’m not at my best.
The fact is that many of us work in an environment that is below our full depth of value – so that creates an opportunity for us to explore and see how we can we can use it to better the world…all while capitalizing off of it at the same time. THOSE AMERICAN’S AND THAT CAPITALISM TALK!
I really appreciate your continued support John. It was awesome speaking to you over the phone all the way from the other side of the pond. That was a great gift!
PEACE
Hi Jk!
I was planning to pass your blog along to a friend who I know will find value here, and this post is the PERFECT one to introduce it to her! I LOVE how your plan is a crock pot not a microwave version! If anyone can do it, you can. If anyone can inspire others to do it – ditto!
The site looks great!
Lori
Lori Gosselin recently posted..I’m Proud of You
Hi Lori,
Thanks for sharing the site with your friend. I hope it serves as a valuable resource.
Developing a side hustle is like smoking meat compared to grilling it…it’s a slower process (more cooking comparisons…and no I don’t even cook)!
Anyhow, thank you for the positive words of encouragement!
JK.
I love it – the perfect analogy. You know who else is a good candidate? The spouse who’s left at home taking care of kids and/or running the office for the husband or wife’s business, especially if they previously worked or had their own gig. Your website looks fantastic – I should have called you while putting together my new one, which was a new experience and completely hurt my head!
Julie | A Clear Sign recently posted..Life Purpose and The Bravery Of Just Showing Up
Hi Julie,
I agree, stay at home mom’s are great candidates. Probably the best candidates! The reason I didn’t include that catagory is becaue I think they are actually better set to have a fully time business. But nevertheless, there are situations where their time is spread a thin (I know it cause my wife is always busy!) so a side hustle is perfect.
Thanks for including that!
Thanks for the kind words on the website. If I can ever be of assistance in the future, just let me know.
Have a wonderful week!
Hi JK,
What a wondeful post you have here my friend and wonderful move you did. I just checked growtheffect.com and it looks great.
I’m a big fan of the “side hustle” my friend. When I started to develp my side hustle which is my site, I knew exactly where I’m heading and what I want to do. In other words, at first I was helping people at my work and in my life with personal development issues, but then I said “How can I make this my career?” This is one of the best steps that I did in my life in regards to my career domain JK. I have created 4 products (e-books) so far and planning to have 4 more by the end of next June, which will make me have a total of 8. Some might wonder how can I create all these products within such a short time? The key my friend as you mentioned managing time better. I set around 2 hours a day to work on my products daily, this requires me to be disciplined and diligent as well. While I do now make money from selling my ebooks, I’m still no where close to what I aspire to reach, but I know with time, I will achieve all my goals in my “side hustle” which will be my full time hustle.
Thanks for sharing my friend and look forward your success in growtheffect.com
Dia recently posted..Why am I so angry all the time
Hey Dia,
You really have a great focus and I know that your side hustle will work wonders. I wish you the best in seeing what is your current side hustle, become your full time business.
You have great clarity of life and I know that you’ll reach all of your goals.
Thanks for sharing your insight!
I am happy that you are side hustler promoter. I am trying very hard on this thing now, but income is not there yet. Will be in time.
Income takes time to generate…but it comes when you can provide a service or product that others see as valuable.
Cool name for your side hustle Jk.
Sounds good to me. I have been full-time online for a few years now but remember doing the 9-5 thing and trading stocks and forex on the side. If you are focused you can prosper.
Thanks for sharing!
RB
Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Hold Your Mental Picture
Hey Ryan,
The name Growth Effect took me forever to come up with. But once that one hit – I was sold!
I’m very serious about prospering in this endeavor and my focus is growing stronger and stronger by the day. There are times when I have mishaps here and there – but that’s just a part of being human. But for the most part – I can’t recall a time when my focus and productivity has been higher.
Thank you for the support sir… Your words are truly encouraging.
JK – love the title of this post, man! I too have been somewhat absent from the blogs that I regularly frequent and it’s fort he very same reason – the side hustle!
It’s definitely challenging having to manage everything that goes into the side hustle but it beats the alternative – waiting to get fired from a job to take action, waiting to win the lottery or perhaps even worse than all of these things combined, waiting on the government to come bail you out! Lol.
BTW -I’ve been on EG and love it man! Can’t wait to be able to work on a project with you JK.
Hector Avellaneda recently posted..‘De-CLASS-ified’ – Plans For My Very First eBook!
Hey Hector,
There comes a time when you have to make a decision on how your time is spent. We know that our time is sometimes spent in one pace, but should be spent on something else. When I took on the great endeavor of starting up growth effect, I knew that had to pull time from my blogging activities. I was spending the bulk of my time around the net reading/commenting. I cut that time back significantly and found ample time to work on revenue generating things.
HN will still be a major part of my day to day life – but now I have to factor in time for a business that I have every expectation that will be a success!
Thanks for making it by. Glad that you got your side hustle poppin’ too! And yes, can’t wait to work together on a project.
PEACE
Absolutely. I know we will soon!
Jk,
I am a strong believer in developing the side hustle. When I was going through some difficulties in my life I spent a lot of time reading personal finance books. One of my favorite pieces of information was related to developing multiple streams of income. Of course your 9-5 provided you with the stable income, benefits and what is deemed as financial security. But, then you needed to take it further developing those income streams that would allow you more financial freedom and the ability to go from a 9-5 to a 9-3 to a 9-12 and then it becomes obsolete.
The side hustle is a great way to get your foot in the door towards other opportunities and learn some great stuff along the way. This was solid bro. Good look!
Frank recently posted..The People Who Inspire Me
Hey Frank – finally getting caught up on these comments. I’ve been heads in on Growth Effect almost solely for the past week.
The wealthy typically have multiple streams of income. But the thing that separates their income from the middle class and below is that they master each piece of business that they get into before moving on to the next thing. And they are very good at managing their time and productivity.
I’m gonna start mimicking the things that they do. And who knows what could happen!
PEACE
Great post here. I’ve also started blogging lately even though I still have a day job. Though I’m not treating my blog as a side hustle, and even though it’s a priority, I’m not financially stable enough to quit my day job and become a full time blogger.
Josh Sarz recently posted..The Power of Good Habits
Hey Josh,
I’ve never seen this blog, Hustler’s Notebook as being a side hustle. It’s been more of a very serious hobby. The reason I don’t view it in the light of a side hustle is because I have not business model attached to it, nor have I attempted to make any money. At some point in the future that could change. But Growth Effect is definitely a for profit endeavor. And so far it’s been fun.
Thanks for stopping by. Nice to meet you!
Hi Jk,
You have to have a plan and work that plan. With hubby and i it is like a team effort. He is getting to the point of wanting to retire someday. I was kind knocked out of the corporate world, so I am working on building my website (which takes time and a lot of learning, especially for someone that didn’t like computer).
He is the bread and bacon right now with the 9 to 5 while I work on the future. How ever you do it it does take work and team work when you have a partner.
thank you for sharing your journey with us. and blessing always,
Debbie
p.s. how are you liking the snow? Yesterday was a little better at 80 degrees, but change is nice.
Debbie @ Happy Maker recently posted..How to Embrace Rejection, 6 Tips to Help You Heal
Hey Debbie,
So glad that snow is long gone (although I still have it on the north side of lawn). From the sounds of it, we have two more snow storms moving in on Wednesday and again on Friday. But who knows – the weather people struggle with their predictions so it could be 75 and sunny!
You and your hubby have a great system in place. Him having the 9-5 and you having the hustle over at Happy Maker Now. That’s awesome. I wish you two the best in your journey to a very comfortable retirement!
I think the side hustle is a great idea, many of us already have a side hustle and don’t even know it.
Love the crock pot vs. microwave analogy, it put my own side hustle in perspective real quick, because some times I want to join the pity parties too, not that I hate my 9 to 5, but sometimes I want my side hustle to develop faster, you know?
The GrowthEffect looks like its just about ready for take off, no? I’ve been poking around on the site, looks great!
Chelsea Thomas recently posted..SIMPLICITY
Hey Chelsea,
I think a lot of people do have side hustles already. In many cases they are under nurtured and rarely brought to a point of maturity. The beauty of a side hustle is to continuously develop it over time. That requires daily, or at least work a few days per week in order to make happen.
The long term success of a side hustle is contingent upon the effort that we put into it. I want to long term success…so I must put out the effort!
Growth Effect is ready. I have a few clients on deck as well as a few in the proposal stage!
Have a wonderful week.
PEACE
I’ve had to go back to my 9-5 job for awhile now. But the gears in my brain keep turning of more ideas and projects to tackle. The side hustle is really great and the new side hustle looks wonderful, keep up the great work!
You know Ryan, sometimes we have to do what we THINK is reverting back to something…but in reality, it could just be a “zig” in the zig-zag pattern that we typically experience when we grow. Who knows, you might be learning new skills or thinking up something for the future while at your 9-5. Best of luck in your endeavors.
Yo Mr over productive
I knew you was up to something! I like your direction. I was Thinking that you was up to something, because I notice a change, not just on your blog but on your online activities as a whole.
I like the idea of a side hustle I’m a great believer valuable hobbies and activities to occupy ones down time. The side hustle is the same kind of thing. I’m going to check out you new site. I love the new look Notebook. Its was good timing to change the look along with the launch of the new company site – good job. King J
Lloyd Christie recently posted..The Art Of A Successful Player
Hey Lloyd,
Yes, I was up to something. And, as you can see I better utilized my time to make it happen. Not saying that being online and checking out my fellow bloggers content and commenting is a bad spend of time…but it really isn’t the best time spent for me, at this stage in my life. So I’ve cut it back some, and added some more productive things to my schedule – like Growth Effect!
Thanks for noticing the new look here. My productivity has been very high over the past couple of weeks so I was able to work on this re-design while also working on the new biz.
Have a great week Lloyd! Thanks for always being here to support the hustle.
Jk, I really enjoyed this post – the message I got from you here was that you’re going to take action now and make a start on your goals and dreams, even though you don’t have as much time as you’d like. But if we don’t start NOW, when do we start?
I’ve been thinking about new projects, as you know. However, with my new full-time employment starting on Monday, I haven’t allocated as much of my thought processes as I’d like to this new venture. I tell myself that I’ll get started once I’ve ‘settled in’ to my new role, but I know I’m only kidding myself there.
If I want to get something, I need to make steps now. Not when things are looking rosier, but now.
Wonderful read my friend
Stuart recently posted..Why I’m Choosing The Road Less Travelled
Hey Stu,
For me time is really just an excuse. I’m awake for about 19 hours in a given day. And no matter what, I ALWAYS make time for what I WANT to make time for – ALWAYS. So, if I don’t get to something it’s only because I’ve made time for something else – or I’m just avoiding something because I don’t to do it.
I think this is a key point for many people. Think about it and you’ll identify how you’re always able to make time for what you really need to make time for. That reality might help you identify that a full time job cannot stand in the way of advancing your goals…unless you allow it you!
Best to you Stu! Keep me posted.
PEACE
Yo JK. First, I think this is a great idea. It’s going to be cool to watch it grow man. You seem like the type to, regardless of your need to devote blocks of time to it and take it just a bit slower than a full blast startup, still move fast anyway.
The obvious reasons (financial obligations and continued living conditions) make the side hustle while maintaining an income generating “job” the smartest thing to do. On the other hand, some startups require more of your time and working a 9-5 almost doesn’t work at all. Like, totally doesn’t work. I’ve been in both situations.
Doing the 9-5, while engaging in a startup, sometimes depends on how comfortable you are in your current position. If there (like they has a couple of times with me) is a sense of urgency to bail out of your 9-5, then that motivator will certainly effect your pace of forward motion. Also, depending on the kind of business it is, and the availability your customers or market demand on you, it can be challenging to the point of chaos when you need to be free during the day to receive and process inbound business (even just a lead, to schedule it and or go work on it). It sometimes has to be one or the others, un-freaking-fortunately!!
Doing the side hustle with a 9-5 that you can stand, and is ok to engage while your business is brewing, works. However! When I’m comfortable, and in a situation I can stand, even though I’m conscious of this, it still isn’t as powerfully motivating as being in a bit of discomfort. I like the extra push because it makes me think more clear about what to do, and creativity and adaptability (and crazy learning) is forced.
I think, just like most things, whether or not you’ll stay in your 9-5 or ditch it for the uncertain, work as you go, figure things out quickly and then aim psychology, is determined by all these little micro variables. Certainly, one way of approaching this can’t be applied to all situations. And what really sucks is that in some cases, what you think you’d ideally like to have happen, can’t!!! But then you use your superpowers to create some new scenario. And such is the joy of entrepreneurship!!!
Sweet post dude. Looking forward to checking your progress.
Ryan Critchett recently posted..Brain’s On Fire Lehigh Valley Meetup Group Gaining Traction #brainsonfire
Hey Ryan,
You made some great points in terms of motivation. That really is everything, in terms for longevity. I can’t lie, I have the kind of job that a lot of people would love to have. I have flexibility in my job that a lot of people would love to have. So, on that front, I’m really not in a bad situation at all – which I’m fortunate for.
Still, I have a drive in me that just doesn’t stop, hence “hustle”! Personally I’m very motivated by accomplishing my goals and seeing things through – so while one guy may work better under a certain pressure (wanting to ditch his job) – I seem to maintain a consistent hustle (drive) to make it happen. One way that works for me is that I view my job as a support system to grow my business. I think because I’m not so much motivated by my emotions (ie. hating a job, disliking a job)…more so I’m motivated by the longer-term scope of what my side hustle can one day be and provide for my family.
But this isn’t just about me, so your points are absolutely important for everyone to understand. That there are pluses and minuses to this type of operation in terms of motivators of one’s current situation. As I dig deeper in on this subject, and I will, I’ll be sure to refer back to your comment to make sure that I include some of the value you dropped here.
Thanks man – have a great week.
PEACE
I’m in favor of side hustles – even several combined into one full time effort. A few weeks ago everyone spoke about diversification and that is so important. When something goes wrong it is great to have several streams of income to rely on instead of only one.
Ana @ Increase Web Traffic recently posted..Aweber Review
Hello Ana,
Diversification is essential in this day in age where jobs aren’t secure. Even for entrepreneurs…they may have a thriving business, but if the industry they partake in is sketchy, they stand to be negatively effective if they don’t play their cards right. With that being the case, having more than one lifeline is a must!
Sounds like a good idea to me. One of the most enjoyable parts of any new venture is building it up from nothing and watching it grow. Even for those who aren’t involved in a 9 to 5 job, having something on the side can be a good, and enjoyable, experience.
Whether you lose your job, or if market conditions change and your enterprise goes belly up, it’s a lot easier to bring something else on stream if it has already had the foundations laid.
Hello Hamish,
There’s great feeling that comes with nurturing something until it matures. It’s fun, requires creativity and tactfulness.
As you said, even those who aren’t’ involved in a 9-5 should be considering a way to expand themselves.
Thanks for the comment!
Hey JK,
First of all i wanna congratulate you for your new project,i always admire you and i always talk about you with my friends,you have the powerful personality man,i am also in a job (9 to 5) that is why i can understand its importance and i can also understand that if any job oriented person wants to develop his side hustle then he can do it obviously.This is a great idea for self satisfaction and even for solid future.I do agree with you that it needs determination and a profound time management,all other points are included in these two key points.We can manage our time left after a Job hours.It definitely need some sacrifices like other endeavors,after this step the Determination comes in role with its full power.I am really very much glad after reading your this eyes opening post.I am sure that it will help many people who are either in search for such thing or living in a thought that Job oriented people can’t establish there side hustles without quitting there Jobs.
Thank you Jk for sharing such a great,valuable,important and considerable content with us.
Good Luck and God Bless!!
With Regards!
Samuel Joshua
Samuel Joshua recently posted..Stained Glass Suncatchers Kits
Hey Samuel,
Thank you for the kind words and I’m honored to hear that this posts served as a bit of value for you. A side hustle is certainly a sacrifice but it also has the great potential for a up-side that we wouldn’t want to miss out on.
I wish you the best in your endeavors.
I think that side hustles are really time saving and at the same time they are perfect even for not the most experienced person. Irreplaceable in my business.
Nice assessment Anna – experienced is developed along the journey!
The title really caught my attention and I am thinking if I can share this to my friends too…
Glad you enjoyed. Have a great week!
Its all Good J
Lloyd Christie recently posted..The Art Of A Successful Player
All the points you mentioned about having a “side hustle” are true. I am doing a few side hustle myself and the money I make I do not spend but keep away. I do not even work 9-5. I work on the third shift and still I do a little side hustling. To improve my skills and to have some extra cash stowed away.
reese recently posted..How to Budget on a Fluctuating Income
Hi Reese,
It can never hurt to have a little stash saved for a rainy day. Excellent way to manage the extra money you make from your side hustle.
Sounds like your a very disciplined individual. Hope that your side hustles continue to serve you in a prosperous way!
It sounds like you’re leading a great adventure.
I know a lot of folks that successfully launched new ventures, while keeping their day jobs to fund their life style. One of the best books I’ve seen on this topic, for the information age, is, The Six Figure Second Income.
J.D. Meier recently posted..30 Day Boot Camp for Time Management
Hi J.D.,
Yes sir, on a great adventure. Enjoying it so far. It’s a lot of work of course, but that comes with any territory…especially initially.
I love the sounds of “The Six Figure Second Income”. Love it!
Well I guess having a side hustle aside from having your regular jobs means having a hard time juggling your time. But it has always a rule of time management so I guess in any problem there’s always a positive solution.
Well it can mean having a hard time juggling your tie. But it doesn’t MEAN that you will have a hard time. You make time for it like you make time for everything else. I really does come down to the individual and their ability to be organized with their time utilization.
Honestly, this is the first time I’ve heard about Side Hustler. And after reading through the post and comments, I’m starting to get interested int his subject. I think I’m going to do read a few more review about Side Hustler. Thanks for bringing this up!
I hope you learn something that benefits you there. Thanks!
Proof of concept is something I believe is the primary benefit of having a side hustle.
Too many people are in a rush to get financing from banks or investors without having ever put in any kind of sweat equity and not only proven to themselves but to others that their business concept has legs.
Financing your own operation also shows you that you need to earn your money rather than depend on others to give it to you like so many of us are trained to. This is the biggest stumbling block I believe new business owners run into. They’ve gone from an environment where even if they did a half-assed job, they still got a pay check. A side hustle will knock you on your ass if you approach it with an “employee mentality and proves to do so year in, year out.
I agree with you that anyone who isn’t battle tested should start with a side hustle just for the pure benefit of getting a nice dose of reality without having to bet the farm.
We share the same philosophy here. It’s ultra important to test the waters of self employment because not everyone has the chops. Most people think they do but quickly learn the opposite when put to the test.
Proof of concept is a concept that just makes sense anytime we can institute it.
Thanks for the words of wisdom, Lewis!
Nice side hustle JK! Definitely a great domain name and very brandable!
I am a fulltime Internet marketer but within that definition one could argue that everything is a side hustle lol!
Seriously, why right now I have 6 online and 2 offline ‘projects’ I am devoting time to… Insane!
Anyway, nice post man certainly pointed out a few truths about focusing and giving time to it. Good to read you again mate
Alex recently posted..8 Firefox Add-Ons That Help Me to Build Rank and Profit.
Hey Alex,
Excuse my very very late reply. Yes, I love the domain name and it took me forever to figure that sucker out! I appreciate you’re kind words there.
If you’re an internet marketer, you are a side hustler. There’s no way around it. All the projects you have going on is insane for sure…but it’s good for business!
Thank you for stopping by and best of luck in your endeavors.
This is very interesting. I am a 9 to 5 person who hates my job right now, so I am looking for some prospects like some ways to get a job that is not that confined. And I can definitely try this side hustle and see where it goes.
Greg
Webmaster of Lethal Commission Review
Greg,
Having a job that we don’t like can serve as a great motivator to get up and move on. And if we don’t…but we only think about how much we don’t like it – then that’s a great view into us not taking action. Until we can become optimal action takers, I don’t believe that we can achieve any form of success; from a 9-5, side hustle or as a full time entrepreneur. I’m learning this myself slowly but surely.
The realization has been life changing.
Hey JK, I love your post about the side hustle, and I’d love to hear how growtheffect.com is going for you.
I was reading something powerful recently, and it kinda said the opposite…that if you want to guarantee your success, burn your ships…meaning quit your job and give yourself no way out…succeed or perish.
It sounds kinda harsh, but the 20 people referenced in the book (the Karbo book) all made millions.
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Hi David. I read that book. I know two people who tried it, and it worked for them. I know many more folks who tried it and regret it. It takes a special personality to pull it off. I caution folks to be sure they have properly prepared their mind to overcome any obstacle before jumping into that arena. An unprepared mind (a mind fraught with thoughts of childhood “NO’s”) is a fearful mind, and should not be handed such a task. It costs too much when it fails – the person finds himself perishing, not succeeding.
Hi David,
I haven’t read the book, but I’ve heard the philosophy. One thing I think that’s absolutely important before one takes such a stretch is that they are completely prepared. I’ve thought I was “ready” before and QUICKLY learned that I wasn’t. If I would have went all out – and not allowed some form of security to persist then I would have compromised a lot.
I do believe that there’s a very thin line between holding back and being calculated. For me, I have to do what works best for my current situation or my perspective would be all out of whack, rendering ineffective anyway!
Thanks for sharing this point of view. Very important one for this post.
Enjoy the weekend@!
Sounds like you have some experience in this area–so I appreciate you bringing your expertise to the table.I love your post about the side hustle, and I’d love to hear how growtheffect.com is going for you.
Hi Leigh,
I have some experience…but I’m not expert! I’m glad you enjoyed the post and thanks for asking about growth effect. Things have been moving along pretty well, better than I had expected this early in the game.
Thank you for stopping by.
Hi Jk.
Might I add another dimension to side hustling? I have a friend. He is a record-holding salesman in the country. He makes over $250,000 a year in commissions (even now).
Peter (my salesman friend) is always side hustling, but with a twist:
(1) He spends 50% of his time working with dysfunctional children and raising funds for to help school them.
(2) He spends 15% of his time the baseball, basketball, soccer and football teams (he has five children).
(3) He spends 15% of his time teaching others how to be incredible at selling (he gets many requests to do this from all kinds of companies).
(4) He spends the other 20% of his time selling!
Peter believes in the Law of Compensation. He has given away over 10,000 of his self-published mini book that explains Emerson’s Law of Compensation. Peter’s side hustling has worked marvelously for over a decade; he gets more referrals and repeat business than anyone else in his industry. He has a mantel full of trophies to prove it.
How is that for side hustling? Side hustling to give so much service that it cannot help but come back to serve you in your business. And think of this: He loves, loves, loves the side hustling in which he participates.
blessings, rob
Hello Rob,
Thanks for sharing Paul’s side hustle story. Sounds like he’s not only making a good living but living wonderfully by being of such great help for others. I’m very motivated by hearing that, for that’s the the kind of service that I want to be able to give.
Rob, I’ve stepped up and served others more this past year more than any other time in my life. And I’ve felt the rewards of the Law of Compensation. The compensation that I’ve received haven’t always been financial, but still wonderfully fulfilling blessings.
You’ve been the biggest blessing.
Thank you
JK, great talk about the side job. Honestly, my side business had to come to a stop when I got into my current field. It often takes 50+ hours of my time, so I’ve had to slowly let my clients go as I just didn’t have the time to give them the quality they needed. It was a tough call, but when I was doing 9-5 Mon-Fri, the side business of graphic design was a real help for our finances and it was a way to thrive in something I loved when my day job was not.
Bryan Thompson recently posted..Why Courage and Happiness are Strongly Connected
Hey Bryan,
Sorry to hear you had to let the side hustle go. But to be honest – I commend you for making the move that was right FOR YOU and your CURRENT SITUATION. Failing to make honest moves will make us ineffective and burn us out.
Keep staying strong my friend. Enjoy the weekend.
Seems like a program, guy. I basically want to make sure my routine with the new alterations work much better, and then I think it is a go! I appreciate you also my friend… all that is, is that iron sharpening iron heading on! Gotta enjoy it!
Glad you enjoyed the post Beth. Good luck!
Well, I have a lot of things that I do on my spare time to make money: first, I am partnered with youtube. And to become partnered with youtube you need to make weekly video on a certain topic that are original and attract at least 1000 viewer per video. Once youtube saw that I was gaining a lot of viewers, They requested that I partner with them and participate in revenue sharing. Furthermore, I a good amount creating videos (5 or 10 dollars per video)
Next, I blog on my free time. Personally, this is my favorite thing to do because it is easy to generate revenue, and it is fun to write about whatever I like. I have 10 blogs, which bring in about a dollar a day each. My three favorite blogs are about weight lifting, football (NFL), and Video games (reviews). So, these topics seem to attract a lot of viewers and give people a good amount of information. Getting a blogger blog is a good way to make some cash, but at the same time it isn’t a “get rich quick” scheme. You won’t be making 700 dollars your first, second, or even third month, but you will make something if you contribute to your blog’s content daily. Remember, make your blogs appealing to the eye and informative. If you are writing about things you genuinely like, i promise you that there are people are there who will take interest- just give it time.
Pamie recently posted..Stock Trading
Hey JK,
Being a small firm owner, this article of yours really helped me allot specially in the raw materials, time, and effort management. Nearly wanting to utilize all the things that you are mentioning from above, it is because they are quality tips and guides. Thanks.
lacarpet recently posted..The Price of a Remodel Is Hard to Make Back
This post really interests me a lot and I hope i can share this to my friends so that they will be inspired to earn money too..
Fria recently posted..About Internet Marketing
This is a great Idea. Actually I have a 9-5 job but still accepting sidelines during week ends.
That is a great post! I love to learn from the expert.. Keep posting some more valuable post like this!
Perrie recently posted..M and S Credit Card Payment Online
good job on your post. same here, i work on the daytime 8-5 monday through saturday but i still try to make my blogs during the weekend or at night before going to sleep or whenever i get a free time.
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