Can I work a 9-to-5 job and still have a side hustle?

By Charisma Rossilia

Many people dream of having a side business because it allows them to experience the joy of financial independence but can you juggle both a full-time and part-time work?

Do you want to make more money? Side hustle is the way to go. Typically, those who invest in a side business want to develop a financial safety net and earn more money than their 9-to-5 jobs allow. However, it’s not as easy as it looks. It takes time, effort, and a lot of energy to commit oneself to more than one work and to perform both successfully.

Let's hear the experience from our fellow side hustler and a full-time worker, John. He has been working full time for over four years in the IT industry and just started his side hustle being involved with machine learning projects over a year ago.

What are your thoughts on having a side income job?
Having a second job is actually very important, especially if one wants to support themselves in a world that is becoming more and more expensive. It's irrelevant to just have one income, especially when you're looking for financial freedom. It also teaches us to be independent and earn things on our own.

Everyone’s wondering, why did you choose to do both jobs?
I believe that everyone should train themselves by managing more than one work at a time because doing so will expeditiously increase one's expertise and skill set. The ability to study, translate theory into practice, and pursue your passion while working many jobs at once feel amazing. For me, doing what you love as a side hustle will help us grow our interest towards it and help us strive for success.

How do you balance a 9-to-5 and side hustle?
It's all about time management. You have to know which one is a priority for you. You must also learn how to manage tasks effectively. Study time-management skills, and take initiative to ask people for advice. Set aside time specifically for any freelance, ad hoc, or other new work that may arise.

What are the pros and cons of working a 9-to-5 job while having a second job?
Everything has its own ups and downs. Let me share with you a few of the pros and cons.

Pros:

  1. Little to no financial issues
  2. Acquiring the abilities necessary to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and trends
  3. Learn about the importance of time management
  4. Learn how to prioritise critical tasks
  5. Build a larger network in preparation for future opportunities

Cons:

  1. Burnout could occur
  2. Less rest time
  3. A poor decision due to stress from juggling both may result in a negative reputation - either at your side hustle or at your full-time job!

Photo by Millo Lin on Unsplash

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