Embarking Together: The Realities and Rewards of Side Hustling
How the reintroduction into the full-time experience made me a better entrepreneur
If there's one thing I've learned on this rollercoaster ride of side hustling, it's that the journey is anything but predictable.
It's filled with highs and lows, twists and turns, and a fair share of surprises along the way.
Today, I want to share my story with you. Not as a guru who has all the answers, but as a fellow traveler on this path, figuring it out one step at a time.
The Spark in the Shadows
My venture into side hustling began in the shadow of COVID-19. With the world turned upside down, I saw an opportunity amid the chaos.
I started my marketing business, driven by a blend of necessity and passion. It was exhilarating to build something from scratch and to see it grow and flourish.
But life, as it loves to do, threw us a curveball. My husband was unexpectedly laid off, and suddenly, the health insurance we took for granted became a pressing concern.
A Pivot, Not a Step Back
Faced with this new reality, I made the tough decision to return to the workplace.
It wasn't easy to step back into a 9-to-5, but necessity breeds innovation.
I was fortunate to secure a position with a 4-day workweek, which became the unexpected key to balancing my job and my side hustle.
This shift forced me to become more intentional with my time. I found pockets of opportunity — early mornings, late nights, weekends—times I could dedicate to my business.
Refining My Craft
As I juggled these dual responsibilities, I realized something had to give. I couldn't split my focus 50/50 between design and writing anymore with full hands-on client work.
I leaned into ghostwriting and copywriting, niches that not only offered more flexibility but also proved to be more lucrative.
This transition wasn't just about adjusting my services; it was about making the most of the limited time I had.
It taught me to work smarter, not harder, and to focus on what truly moved the needle for my business.
Freedom Within Structure
What I've found through this journey is a sense of freedom and flexibility I didn't know was possible.
Yes, there are constraints. Yes, there are sacrifices. But within those boundaries lies the ability to shape a life that aligns with my values, my goals, and my family's needs.
This path has shown me that side hustling isn't just a way to earn extra income; it's a gateway to discovering how resilient, adaptable, and creative I can be.
Walking Beside You
I'm not here to preach from a pedestal but to walk beside you, sharing the lessons I've learned, the mistakes I've made, and the victories I've celebrated.
This journey is as much yours as it is mine. I believe that by sharing our stories, we can shed light on the path for each other.
Whether you're just starting or you've been at this for a while, know that you're not alone.
Let's learn from each other and grow together. Because, in the end, it's the shared journey that makes the destination so rewarding. And the rewards are plenty.