Are you considering pursuing a side hustle but unsure if it’s a good move? 

According to this expert – “A side hustle that matches your competencies in specific crafts can add meaning to your life and help you serve a larger purpose.” (Dr Brandon Koh, Industrial-organisational psychologist, Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS))

Yes. Having a side hustle might just make you happier. It can be an outlet for you to explore your passions and find fulfilment outside your day job.

Here’s the TLDR:

What is a side hustle?

A side hustle is a way to pursue your passions and/or make extra income from your primary job. It can be anything from selling crafts on Etsy to driving for a ride-sharing service. The whole point is to have a way to make some money while also doing something you’re into.

It’s different from a regular part-time job because you have more freedom and control over what you do, when, and how long you work on it.

Why pursue one? 

Starting a side hustle can be more than just about making some extra cash. There are financial and personal benefits that can make it worth your while.

Improving your finances

One of the biggest reasons to start a side hustle is to bring in some extra money. If your day job isn’t cutting, a side gig can help you make ends meet. Plus, it can help you achieve your financial goals, like saving for retirement, buying a house, or taking a dream vacation. The best part? You can work from home and save on transportation costs for remote work.

Another reason is that it can bring you joy, create a space where you can express yourself differently. We know of people who are an analyst by day, livestreamer + podcaster by night; IT professional by day and dancer + dance studio owner by night.

Taking care of your well-being

A side hustle can make you happy. If you have a passion for something like selling baked goods or are good with handicrafts, starting a small business can give you a creative outlet, leaving you with a sense of fulfilment. 

It’s also a great way to develop new skills that benefit your full-time job. 

Even if it doesn’t cover all your bills, the work can be very fulfilling if it brings you joy and aligns with your values. 

How to pursue one? 

If you want to start your own side hustle, the first step is to identify your passions and interests. What do you love doing in your free time? What skills do you have that could be turned into a business? 

Once you have your idea, create a plan and set some goals. Be bold, start small and gradually build your business over time. Utilise social media and online resources to market your business and connect with potential customers.

What to consider if it fails or takes off?

Starting a side hustle can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but what happens if it doesn’t go as planned? It’s essential to consider the possibilities of failure and success and how to navigate them gracefully and positively.

If your side hustle fails, it’s important not to be too hard on yourself. Remember that failure is a natural part of any journey, and it’s an opportunity to learn and grow. Reflect on what went wrong and what you could have done differently. Don’t be afraid to seek help or advice from others who have been through similar experiences. Consider pivoting or adjusting your approach, and keep trying until you find something that works. Go google “growth mindset”.

On the other hand, if your side hustle takes off, it’s important to stay grounded and maintain perspective. Getting caught up in the excitement and losing sight of your goals and values can be easy. Stay true to yourself and your vision, and don’t let success change who you are. Remember to take care of yourself and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Feel free to delegate or ask for help if you need it.

Whether your side hustle fails or takes off, remember that it’s all part of the journey. Every experience is an opportunity for growth and learning. Stay positive and never give up on your dreams. With a good mindset and approach, your side hustle can lead to great things.

Final Thoughts

Ready to unlock your potential? Take the leap with a side hustle and see where it takes you. Who knows, it could be the start of a successful career and/or a fulfilling hobby. No matter the outcome, the experience can be so worth the ride. Go on, go test it out!

You Might Need Some Help

Going full-time with your side hustle can be downright terrifying. You don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help you every step of the way when you sign up for *SCAPE Career Studio, which supports aspiring creatives like yourself.