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Side Hustle Your Way to Financial Freedom!

For many of us, no matter how hard we work, a full-time job just doesn’t seem to quite cut it financially. Oftentimes we need more money, but don’t want to settle for working two traditional, fully-committed jobs. We strive for unique approaches to earning extra cash. Ideally, we hope to find a way of earning income that is, dare we say, enjoyable?

Cue the modern era of the side hustle! Also known as the gig economy, this phenomenon has become increasingly popular, especially among Millennials. Just in case you are unfamiliar with the term, an article by Entrepreneur titled Do the Side Hustle: 5 Better Ways to Earn Extra Cash gives a perfect definition of what a side hustle is:

“A side hustle is a way to make some extra cash that allows you flexibility to pursue what you’re most interested in. It can also be your true passion—a chance to delve into fashion, travel or whatever it is you care about the most without quitting your day job.”

Although effective side hustling requires a bit of finesse and fine-tuning, anyone with enough motivation, creativity, and desire can be successful at the side hustle. Who knows? Maybe your side hustle gig will be something you’re truly passionate about?

Create an App or Game

At this point in our tech-ingrained world, there’s essentially an app for everything. There’s also more potential in the palms of our hands for gaming than ever. Creating an app or mobile game is easier than ever and can earn you a lot of revenue if your idea takes off.

Many people without previous coding knowledge may feel a bit intimidated about learning this tech skill. However, events such as HTML150 in the Canadian cities of Vancouver and Montreal are tangible proof that anyone can learn to code! You can be any age, any gender, with any amount of previous experience and still learn coding basics.

Just be certain that whatever you choose to develop is as secure as possible. The recent rise in mobile attacks leaves some devices and users vulnerable. But don’t fret! There are plenty of resources out there for up-and-coming mobile developers. Whether you’re planning on creating an app or a mobile game do your best to make it as secure as it is practical.

Sell, Sell, Sell!

We’ve all heard of pyramid schemes and their scammy history. While this is certainly something to look out for, don’t let that scare you away from some good old-fashioned side hustle sales opportunities.

In fact, pyramid schemes are technically illegal, and recent laws help protect those who want to get involved in the more ethical way to sell, known as multi-level marketing. The Better Business Bureau elaborates and pinpoints the differences between the two:

“The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has set guidelines that help consumers discern legitimate plans from illegal ones. The difference between MLM and pyramid schemes under these guidelines are as follows: Sales of actual product or services to consumers, MLM offers products whereas Pyramid schemes do not … Pyramid schemes have large start-up costs and substantial hidden fees. They generate revenue by selling the opportunity, not the product.”

That all being said, it is possible to find multi-level marketing companies that offer as much flexibility and opportunity as other side gigs. Many multi-level marketing companies take the concept of having a sustainable business model very seriously and pay their sellers well.

For example, Amway is a long-running organization that’s seen consistent revenue in the billions in global sales each year. And since 1959, they have paid out almost $60 billion in incentives to distributors and sellers across the world.

Just remain careful: look for any red flags if you decide to sell products on the side. If whatever you are getting involved in seems like a scam, it certainly could be.

Transportation Work

If you have a valid license and a decent car, it’s easier than ever to side hustle by simply driving around or delivering—and both can be done entirely on your own terms! While it’s recommended to stay away from Uber as a driver and passenger for various reasons there are plenty of “modern day taxi” apps to drive for such as Lyft, Flywheel, Hailo, and Curb.

Postmates is also an option for delivery-based transportation side work. You simply bring orders of items to people, whether they are craving food from a specific restaurant and don’t want to get it themselves or ran out of toilet paper at the worst possible moment.

Dog Walking and Pet Sitting

Are you truly a dog lover? If so, a dog walking side job could actually seem more like a reward than a side hustle. Advertise your dog walking services online, on platforms such as Craigslist. You can also stick to tried-and-true old-school methods, like hanging advertising fliers and posters around your community.

Additionally, most pet owners who must leave their fur babies at home while vacationing would agree that paying someone to pet-sit versus expensive kenneling services is a win-win scenario. If you have the space and energy to watch over people’s pets you can earn a lot of extra cash doing so. And if you love animals, this will likely be an entertaining and enjoyable process.

Online Freelance Opportunities

When you possess a refined skill such as writing, photography, or some other art form there’s now almost limitless potential for freelance work. This specific kind of side hustle is most commonly thriving for those who flourish online. Get involved in freelance networks such as Upwork, Fiverr, Freelance Writing Jobs, as well as many others.

These are all great jumping-off points if you are interested in pursuing freelance endeavors. Imagine how great a side gig would be if it pertains to a skill that you flourish at and are passionate about. Speaking from personal experience, it’s absolutely wonderful to do what you love!

Even if it’s not listed above, consider pursuing your dreams through side hustling. There could be a platform for your passions, whether that’s through freelance side gig work, selling products to friends and family, or walking dogs a couple nights a week, the side hustle marketplace is alive and well. This could very well be your key to a gateway of financial freedom!

Robert Parmer
Robert Parmer
ROBERT Parmer is a student of Boise State University, ex-chef and barista, and adamant writer. He stepped away from the kitchen life three years ago to pursue freelance writing endeavors, and enjoys writing about business, health/wellness, and cats.

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