How Many Jobs You Got?
Do you have just one source of income, or are you one of the many people with at least one side gig? For some, it’s a necessity, and for others, it’s their passion. I want to dive into the art of the side hustle and how it’s shaping the world of work. And in case you didn't know, the Bureau started out as a side hustle, and look at us now!
A Career with a Side of Hustle
This might be a divisive topic, but let’s tackle the side hustle: the what, why, and how. First, the gig economy is here to stay. For better or worse, pretty much nobody spends 40 years at the same company working 9 to 5. And there are several reasons for the side hustle plays a role in their plans:
For some, they do side work because they need it to pay the bills, which is no surprise given the rising cost of living.
Other people just can’t stand the thought of being boxed into one job, so they want to spread their wings.
Another group is those who have a dream to open that gelato stand but can’t quite pay the rent with it yet, so they do it part-time.
Many of our own Bureau members have side gigs, especially in the digital creative space. And while it may not be for everyone, there are some great reasons to consider it. The extra income is nice, and it’s also a great way to stretch your skills by learning something new. You might even find a new career that you never expected.
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and dollar signs. Side gigs can eat away your free time, and there is always the risk of them impacting your performance at your primary job, whether it’s taking your time during the day or just leaving you too tired. So it’s all a matter of balance.
Should You Start a Side Gig?
If this is something you’ve been thinking about, ask yourself what your motivation is. If you need extra income, make sure you know what you’re getting into, especially if you have to put money into your hustle to start it. Or if you just want the variety of experiences that come from a side hustle. Remember that there’s no obligation for you to continue if it’s not enjoyable.
An Employer’s Perspective
Like the increasing acceptance of remote work, more bosses are supporting their employees who want to do work on the side. It sounds paradoxical, but letting them have a gig may actually help retain your best and brightest employees because they see their boss putting their needs first. The company can also benefit as employees gain new skills and increase their confidence. A 2021 study showed that employees are more fulfilled and motivated when they do some work on the side.
Side hustles aren’t for everyone, but they can be a good way to explore your interests and help you expand your abilities.
Career success isn’t one-size-fits-all, and nobody should feel obligated to do more than a full-time job. But in the right situation, finding something you enjoy outside of the office is a great opportunity for growth.