Side hustles have become a popular way for many people to earn extra income outside of their regular job. Whether it’s driving for a rideshare service, selling handmade crafts online, or freelance writing, side hustles offer a way to boost your earnings and pursue your passions. I, too, am no stranger to the world of side hustles.
For years, I worked for a financial firm, but I also took on writing projects on the side for extra money. This was not only a way to supplement my income but also a step towards eventually leaving the finance world and pursuing something more fun and creative. In my 20s, I didn’t mind working a side hustle as I had more free time despite a demanding work schedule. The extra money was great for my budget and allowed me to save for the future.
However, as my 30s rolled around and I had kids, I found myself with less time and energy to dedicate to side hustles. Additionally, my career had shifted to full-time writing, making side hustles less appealing. But one of the main reasons I was able to quit side hustling in my 30s was because of the extra income I had saved during my 20s. This savings gave me the opportunity to explore passive income options instead.
Passive income can come in various forms, such as interest from savings accounts or CDs, or dividend income from a stock portfolio. My passive income strategy involved a combination of CDs and stocks, tailored to my income goals and risk tolerance. While stocks can be riskier than CDs, being a long-term investor helped mitigate that risk.
To earn a meaningful amount of passive income, you need to have a significant amount of money saved or invested. This may require working a side hustle for a while to build up your savings. However, once you reach a certain point, you can start to move away from the side hustle lifestyle and let your money work for you.
Building up savings and investing requires discipline and patience. It may be tempting to spend your side hustle income on immediate gratification, but saving and investing most of it can lead to long-term financial stability. With dedication and perseverance, you can build up the cash reserves needed to earn passive income and enjoy the freedom it brings.
In conclusion, side hustles can be a valuable way to earn extra income, especially when saving and investing that income can lead to passive income streams in the future. By being mindful of your spending, setting financial goals, and staying disciplined, you can work towards financial independence and enjoy the benefits of passive income. It’s a process that requires time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it in the end.