Have you ever considered quitting your regular job and starting your own business, WHETHER IT’S OFF FROM A PLANE? The idea may be tempting, but other paths exist to financial freedom and personal fulfilment. There is another practical way to pursue your entrepreneurial aspirations without leaving the security of your current job—through a side hustle.
You can start a side hustle while still working your regular job, bringing you extra income and a sense of confidence and security. So, what do you need to start a side hustle without quitting your day job?
Read on to explore the world of side hustles and how to start without leaving your current employment.
What is a Side Hustle?
A side hustle is an income-generating project you pursue alongside your main job. It allows you to explore your passions, utilize your existing skills, and earn additional income, whether Kshs. 20,000, KShs. 50,000, or even KShs. 100,000 per month. The best part is that you don’t have to sacrifice the stability of your current job or take on excessive risks.
Don’t Quit, Start a Side Hustle
Many resources and success stories focus on the narrative of quitting your job to pursue entrepreneurship. However, that path may only be suitable or desirable for some. You might enjoy your job and want a steady income while exploring new opportunities. Starting a side hustle can help you achieve this.
How to Start a Side Hustle
Starting a side hustle can be simple and manageable. It doesn’t require you to follow traditional advice that might only work for some. You don’t need to rely on the often quoted notion that “money will come if you do something you love.”
You also don’t need to write a lengthy business plan or incur high credit card debt. Instead, it would be best if you shift your mindset and take action.
So, how do you embark on this journey of starting a side hustle? Here are four steps to help you get started:
#1. Seek inspiration and guidance
Subscribe to podcasts or shows that feature stories of ordinary people who have successfully started side hustles while keeping their day jobs. You can learn valuable insights and gain inspiration from their experiences. Reading books focused on side hustles can provide step-by-step guidance and helpful tips.
#2. Brainstorm ideas
Take the time to brainstorm potential side hustle ideas. Remember, each idea will have its pros and cons. You want to focus on profitable ideas that align with your skills, interests, and market demand. Embrace the process of generating ideas and be open to refining them as you go along.
#3. Take action
While generating ideas is crucial, they only become valuable when you implement them. The key is to start quickly, even if you feel you need more preparation. The Side Hustle School method emphasizes taking action and making progress incrementally.
#4. Invest in yourself
Investing in your side hustle can be a manageable financial commitment. There are many free or cheap resources you can use to support your journey. However, the most important investment in this journey is your time. Dedicate at least 20 minutes each day to work on your side hustle, whether brainstorming, researching, or taking small steps toward its development.
Tips for Managing a Full-Time Job Alongside a Side Hustle
If you’re pursuing a business venture on the side or considering it, here are some tips for keeping it together.
Stick to a schedule:
- Create a routine and prioritize your side business.
- Plan your week, allocating time for tasks related to your job and startup.
- Hold yourself accountable to an organized calendar to make time for both roles.
Organize tasks effectively:
- Categorize tasks into “done” and “not done” buckets.
- Rank them by priority and schedule them throughout the week.
- Remember, self-discipline is key, and productivity tools alone aren’t enough.
Reconnect with your inspiration:
- Regularly remind yourself why you started your business.
- Revisit the passion behind your side hustle.
- If it no longer excites you, reevaluate your goals and consider alternatives.
When To Go Full-Time in Side Hustle
Once your side hustle starts to gain traction and generate consistent income, you may wonder when it’s the right time to transition to working on it full-time. Before taking that leap, consider the following steps:
#1. Ensure financial stability
Before resigning from your job, make sure your side hustle can cover your basic expenses, such as bills and living costs. Aim to replace some of your current income to alleviate initial financial pressure. Building a solid client base or consistent gig flow is crucial for financial stability.
#2. Build savings
Having a financial safety net before going full-time with your side hustle is prudent. Aim to have at least one month’s worth of savings, preferably three months’ worth, to provide a buffer as you transition. This savings cushion will reduce the pressure to replace your previous income immediately.
#3. Test your side hustle’s scalability
Evaluate whether your side hustle has the potential to grow beyond its current state. Consider factors such as market demand, the scalability of your offerings, and the potential for expansion. Assessing the scalability of your side hustle can provide confidence and reassurance as you contemplate going full-time.
#4. Minimize risks
Identify and minimize potential risks associated with going full-time with your side hustle. Analyze factors such as market volatility, industry trends, and competitive landscape. Mitigate risks by diversifying your income streams, maintaining a strong client base, and continually adapting and evolving your offerings.
#5. Leave on good terms
When you’re ready to quit your regular job, ensure to leave on good terms. Maintain professionalism and give proper notice to your employer. Leaving gracefully will help preserve relationships and open doors for collaboration or future opportunities.
The Bottom Line
Starting a side hustle can be a powerful way to explore your entrepreneurial ambitions without immediately quitting your job. It allows you to build income, gain confidence, and create a backup plan.
You can cultivate a successful side business while maintaining the stability of your current job. When right, consider transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship armed with the experience and resources gained from your side hustle journey.
Sell Your Side Hustle on Balozy
You don’t have to quit your job to become an entrepreneur—your side hustle can be the stepping stone to a brighter future. Balozy is here to help your hustle succeed by giving you access to clients looking for your services. Download the Balozy app, sign up as a pro, and earn extra income from your side hustle.
