We'd all love to spend more time doing what we love, and we'd probably also like to give our finances a boost. But is it possible to combine the two? Possibly, if you go down the side hustle route . . . something more and more of us are now doing. As of 2017, more than 44 million Americans [1] are running at least one business project on the side. Rather than giving up the day job, these people keep the security of a regular pay check while exploring other ways to make cash. There are lots of reasons why you might want to join the gig economy, from wanting more money at the end of the month [2] to developing your CV to preparing for a career change, to increasing your happiness levels by making time for your interests.
So, how can you turn your passion into an out-of-hours money-spinner? Think about what you enjoy doing, your hobbies, what you're good at, and where your talents lie. From fashion and shopping to watching TV and blogging, you'll be amazed at the different ways you can make money from a side hustle. As you become busier, just keep an eye on a healthy work-life balance [3], and if it becomes your full-time gig, you might also appreciate some tips on how to stay sane when working from home [4].
Re-selling
Probably the most popular way of making money on the side, re-selling is easily accessible and quick to start [5]. It can be as simple as selling your own unwanted things on eBay. But it can also be more specialized, and more profitable, if you have a particular knowledge base.
Are you an expert on vintage clothing? Do you know how to identify a valuable collectible at a car boot sale? Carve out a niche for yourself, and your side hustle is more likely to soar.
Mystery Shopping
Love shopping? You can get paid for being a mystery shopper, either online or in person, by filling in detailed assignments about your experiences on the task you're set.
There are various companies offering these roles, from International Service Check [6] to i-Say by Ipsos [7].
Blogging
Anyone can set up a blog, and it can lead to amazing opportunities. Write about whatever you're an expert at, and market your work as widely as possible through social media. It could eventually lead to writing for traditional media outlets, speaking about your subject on the radio and TV, writing a book, setting up an online shop, or running workshops and e-courses in your field.
The same goes for Instagram accounts and YouTube channels, if your particular area of expertise lends itself better to the visual or the moving image. A lot of people are making a lot of money, and who says you can't be next? Just remember to find a niche, and be original.
Baking
Are you the go-to person in your family whenever food is needed? You could start up your own baking business. People pay big money for beautifully decorated cakes, and many people have side hustles in this area.
You could even run workshops and teach others the skills that you have. Great British Bake Off, here you come.
Filling in Surveys
Are you known as the opinionated one in your squad? You can earn money for answering surveys and questions as part of YouGov [8]'s online community.
The points you earn for filling in surveys can be turned into cash, and you might even get your opinion featured in the news. Topics can range from news items to TV shows to brands.
Tutoring
Use your particular area of expertise to teach or tutor others in the subject. Whether it's a craft, a language, an academic subject, or a musical instrument that you're skilled at, you can make extra money through private tutoring.
You can run your business from home, use a library, church hall, or adult education centre, or even run a virtual course online. Gather testimonials from satisfied customers, and help boost your profile through word of mouth.
Being a Virtual Assistant
If you work in a service role already, chances are you've got lots of skills you can offer other businesses, and all from the comfort of your own home. Small and medium-size companies often don't need/can't afford full-time in-house assistance, so they outsource it to a VA.
You might be skilled at marketing, editing, project management, typing, or planning. Once you've chosen your business area and which services you can offer clients, set up a pricing structure, create an online presence, then start pitching, networking, and building relationships to get it off the ground.
Being a Tour Guide
Fancy yourself an expert in something? Then you could sign up to host an Airbnb Experience [9].
You can host an activity that people visiting your local area would love to experience, whether that's a tour or a class, based on your particular area of expertise, skill, or hobby.
Exam Marking
Have you got a degree and teaching qualification? If you've taught in the past three years, then you could pick up some extra cash as a moderator or examiner.
Exam boards like CIMA [10] take on examiners in various subjects at a variety of levels. It's usually intensive work over a set period, but there's good money to be made marking exams.
Crafting
If your talents lie in creative skills, then you can turn them into a business in various ways. The simplest option is to sell the things you make through local craft fairs and online via platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or even your own website.
You could also offer workshops from home or at a local venue. From knitting, jewellery making, and upcycling furniture to designing clothes and even printables, there are lots of creative areas you can make money from.