Freelancers, part of the gig-economy, self-employed. There are many terms floating around to describe those of us that by choice or by necessity have worked the odd job and the odd hours to make a living.
With the increase in those with an entrepreneurial spirit taking the reigns, I wanted to share with you my thoughts on why despite the negative connotations freelancers get, it’s worth pursuing your passions to make a living wherever your creativity may take you.
The thing is with so many success stories floating around the web it takes more than just chance to make it. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and well, a lot of hard work.
Blogging and Social Media Influencer
So, you want to be a blogger? Many people want to start blogging to make money and get their hands on some sweet swag. The reality behind that is that it doesn’t work that way. Blogging is no get-rich-quick scheme.
It takes a lot of passion; whether that be writing, fashion photography, jewellery making or anything else under the sun. What makes bloggers successful is the passion to preserve and keep on hustling despite the rejections.
Being a blogger or social media influencer can be full-time, part-time, or can even be a stepping stone to get the job of your dreams in PR, blogger outreach, or a job in a digital agency.
Writing an E-book
On the subject of writing, self-publishing has become quite a big thing as of the past few years. And you know what, it’s because it works. If you are quite savvy on a specific subject your e-books can help you make a pretty penny.
Driving for Uber or Lyft
One of the hottest ways to make money right now and the biggest gig-economy culprit is Uber. With so much negative publicity this company is currently getting people may want to steer well clear. It takes discipline to make the gig-economy work for you and not fall victim to the negative aspects that happen in whatever industry you may work in.
Selling Your Handmade Items
The biggest name when it comes to selling your handmade items is Etsy. I love the premise behind it and think it’s a perfect way to start selling your handmade items if you’re crafty and able to make some tangible goods that others will love. I’m sure I don’t have to go into detail at what Etsy is and does, but it’s a wonderful thing to be able to bring your creations to the world along with knowing that you matter as a creator.
Offering Private Lessons
You don’t have to be a certified teacher to offer your services. If you are multilingual you can give conversational lessons in the language and even skip the face to face and offer these chats via video chat or Whatsapp.
If you’re more of a hands-on person then sharing your expertise in photography, painting, or calligraphy you can host small classes out of your home for your friends who can then recommend their friends thus expanding your little business empire.
With the ease of developing online courses, you can opt for showing off your skills to a wider audience. Thus only having had to create something once and having it keep on working.
The secret is to work hard, be savvy, and make your side hustles work for you without feeling they are controlling your time and skills.
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