I hate the concept of a “side hustle” because often times many people start a side hustle due to financial strain brought on by salaries staying stagnant while cost of living goes up, the burden of giant student loans, too few opportunities to move up in the company they work for, or burnout from the constant “hustle” that is required of them, staying connected to work everyday and at all hours.
Side hustle has become such a thing that I now have more friends with a side hustle than friends with only a day job. If you have a side hustle or are thinking about starting one, here are the top things I’ve learned about growing your side hustle business while also working full-time:
Tell People You’re Open for Business
I understand that when first starting a business you might have some reservations about telling people, even your friends and family. DON’T BE SHY! How are you supposed to sell your products and services if know one knows about them? Many of my clients have come from referrals and those referrals wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t tell people about marketing services.
Have a Vision
Have a vision of what you want to build. This vision should include how much money you want to make, how many hours you want to work, and types of clients or customers you want to work with. Your vision will take time to accomplish but having that vision will help you lay the right foundation as you get started and as you grow.
Remember the Small Steps Count
As the saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day”. Every single step forward is helping you reach your vision. You’re going to have days you want to throw in towel, but don’t do it. Appreciate all you’ve accomplished so far.
Treat It Like a Real Business (Because it is one)
If you’re serious about your side hustle, you need to treat it like a real business. That means:
- Getting all of the legal and accounting stuff together as soon as you get started (or now!)
- Being consistent with your work.
- Always under promise and over deliver.
- Recognize you have to put in the work to see your desired results.
Implementation is Key
Ideas are great, but implementation is what really matters. Do the work.
Done is Better than Perfect
Perfectionism can bite you in the ass when you’re working full-time and trying to grow your side hustle. If you get wrapped up in being perfect, you’re never going to get anything done and there are only 24 hours in the day. Use your time wisely and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Don’t Try to Do Everything Yourself
Being a one man band is tough work, and you don’t need to be an expert in everything. Prioritize tasks that make you money and will help you reach your vision. Get support by learning new skills from experts, joining a community or outsourcing tasks to a VA.
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