In 2017, a CareerBuilder survey found that a third of all American workers had at least one side job. I was part of that statistic for a while, working long hours as a manager at a fast-food chain. It was okay, but not really fulfilling. So, I started freelance writing on the side to break up the routine and make some extra cash. Before I knew it, I was spending just as much time writing as I was at the restaurant. That’s when it hit me – I could quit my day job and write full-time. So, I did, and I’ve never looked back.
But it wasn’t an easy decision. It took me a while to feel secure enough in my writing career to leave my stable restaurant job. Some people make the leap sooner, others never do and keep their side hustle as just that – a side hustle. Some even turn their side gigs into full-blown businesses and start hiring employees.
No matter what your goal is, here’s what you need to know to balance your day job and side gig, and manage the inevitable tension between the two.
First things first, if you’re considering a side gig or have already started one, you need to review your employment contract. Look out for noncompete clauses, exclusivity clauses, and nondisclosure agreements. These could interfere with your side business. If you’re unsure about any of this, consult an employment lawyer. Remember, employment contracts can be negotiated, so don’t be afraid to ask for changes.
Next, avoid any actual or apparent conflicts of interest. Even if you quit your day job, noncompete clauses can still apply, so be careful. Discuss your side gig with your boss and HR to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
Also, follow your workplace’s policies. Some companies encourage employees to pursue outside interests, while others have strict rules. Either way, respect these policies. Don’t use company resources for your side business, and definitely don’t poach clients or employees from your employer.
Organization is key. Keep your side gig separate from your day job. This means setting up a dedicated workspace at home, using personal software and accounts for your side business, and keeping all related paperwork and digital files separate.
Treat your side hustle like a real business. Consider setting up a formal business structure, like an LLC, and open a separate bank account for your side hustle. Make a business plan and budget, and consult a tax expert to understand your obligations.
Balancing a side hustle and a full-time job is all about time management. Start your day earlier, integrate your side gig into your morning routine, and use your evenings and weekends wisely. Set realistic deadlines, create a task calendar, and use reminders to stay on track. Eliminate distractions, and consider hiring a virtual assistant for low-value tasks.
Remember, your day job should always take precedence. Don’t work on your side hustle during company time, and maintain a strict separation between the two. But if your side gig complements your day job, you might be able to work it into your day job activities.
Don’t overwork yourself. Set a limit on the number of hours you’ll devote to your side hustle each week, and adjust as necessary. Use your time off to your advantage, and take days off to work on your side gig.
Most side gigs don’t turn into full-time careers, but it’s worth keeping an open mind. When I started freelance writing, I had no idea it would become my full-time job. Maybe a few years from now, you’ll have a similar story to tell. Or maybe you’ll just have some fun stories about the time you tried to turn a side project into a career. Either way, enjoy the journey.
