How To Balance Your Side-Hustle With A Full Time Job
As a self described multi-passionate professional, I work full-time in technology while running a fashion jewelry brand Klas squared on the side. While my full-time job has challenged me and provided opportunity for professional development over the past ten years, it was halfway in, that I realized something was missing. I had dedicated the first 25 years of my life to dance and found myself without any creative pursuits. I could feel myself being called to express myself but I wasn’t sure where to start. All I knew was that I needed a creative outlet to connect back to my soul, to find fulfillment and joy.
Naturally, I decided to partner with my mom on the fashion brand she had founded and my side hustle was born. Since then, I have come to learn that creativity is critical to our overall well-being. And being an entrepreneur is one part of a bigger picture and a necessary component of my overall happiness.
Are you working to balance a side-hustle with a full time job? Here are some of the things I’ve learned along the way:
SELF-EXPRESSION IS SELF-CARE.
When we feel fully expressed, we are able to show up completely as ourselves. As a result we feel more confident, capable, and effective in all parts of our lives. Taking time out of our day to be creative allows you to be connected and aligned to living your truth - the ultimate self-care practice. Adopting this mindset will help you to make time for your side hustle.
CREATE A RITUAL
Curiosity leads to creativity. By having an open mind, inspiration can more readily find us. However, many of us seem to get stuck in the full-time work bubble and it can be difficult to transition into side-hustle work. The solution? Create a practice or ritual to get you in the mindset. This could include making a cup of coffee, having a dedicated workspace, or lighting a candle. Gabby Bernstein has some great tips on her podcast too.
CREATE BOUNDARIES
This one is a toughie. I will admit I’m still a rookie but the reality is, you can’t say ‘yes’ to everything. It can be easy to take on more work, to rsvp to every networking opportunity, or to feel that you need to be available and sharing on every single social media platform. The truth is, we can’t do it all and it’s important that you are honest with yourself in acknowledging that upfront. If you’re looking for some guidance on how to set boundaries to keep from burning out, start here.
MAKE METRICS MANAGEABLE
As a result, it will ensure your expectations are realistic and achievable. This one may vary depending on what stage you are in with your side hustle, but if you’re just starting out I recommend you focus on getting your work out there, period. The consistency and credibility will come but only if you share what you’ve created with the world.
Need help being kept accountable?
JOIN A COMMUNITY OF LIKE-MINDED INDIVIDUALS
Magic can happen when you surround yourself with like-minded people in a safe and supportive space. I spent too long feeling as though my support system was divided based on corporate career or entrepreneurial pursuits. So, I created a community of my own where multi-passionate professionals can thrive together. You can join us here.
ASK FOR HELP
As hard as we try, we can’t do it alone. Work with a mentor, a coach, or a friend to help you push past limiting beliefs. The right person will help you to feel worthy and as a result, empowered and comfortable in your own skin. Help can also come in the form of software, tools for automation, and even a virtual assistant depending on the budget your side hustle provides if it’s generating revenue.
SCHEDULE TIME OFF
Although many of us use our spare time to pack in our passion projects, it’s important we take time to reset and recharge. Make sure to take time off so you have the energy and clarity to show up in your side hustle and at work.
Ready to take your side hustle to the next level? Join my free workshop to learn more as I give tangible advice on how to pivot between both mindsets, avoid issues with your boss, and plan ahead for big changes with your side-hustle when you’re busy with your full-time job!
Photo credit: Natasha Gerschon