The humble side hustle comes in many forms.

We all talk a big game about rejecting the rise-and-grind mentality of recent years, but do we walk it? Sometimes, the lure of a good side hustle is just too good. And as we’re all wondering wtf will happen in our financial future, earning a bit of extra pocket money doesn’t hurt. 

On the fence about starting a side hustle or wondering what it even means? This one’s for you.

What’s a side hustle?

One quick scroll of your socials, and you’ll be inundated with side hustlers:

• Your friend from high school walking dogs, 
• Someone dropping Uber Eats on doorsteps,
• Even a random on your local community group with a room to rent. 

The humble side hustle comes in many forms.

Simply put, it’s a way to supplement your regular income. The bonus? There are hundreds of ways to do it. 

Ever sold something on FB Marketplace? You little hustler, you. According to recent Australian stats, selling pre-owned stuff is the most popular way for Gen Z and millennials, with around 35% of us making extra money this way. For older Australians, collecting recyclable cans and bottles is their preferred side hustle, with 48% of Gen X earning supplement income in the eco-trade.

Why is the hustle trending?

Since the dawn of time, people have had second (or third) jobs. So, why is the humble side hustle making headlines lately? These changes could be the reason.

• The rise of the gig economy

Task-oriented service platforms and ride-sharing are just a few ways the gig economy has blown up. The internet has made earning some cash in a side hustle easier than ever, so it makes sense.

• We could all use more money

The cost of living crisis is no joke. And if we can use our skills to make extra cash to pay for groceries and everyday stuff, why not? 

• Good ol’ Consumerism

A recent study showed that 71% of Australians agree we own more than we need. How do we pay for it all? By earning a bit of extra cash to keep up with what’s trending. 

Ready for a side piece?

When you get it right, a lucrative side hustle can be damn good. But before you start launching a business or selling all your stuff on Marketplace, you need to get real and ask yourself these questions.

• Are there upfront costs?

Marketing, administration, inventory, planning—all these things cost time and money. How much are you willing to invest? The government has a great business start-up spreadsheet you can use for free if you want the nitty-gritty.

• Do you have an honest budget?

Get a handle on your monthly incomings and outgoings before taking on a side hustle. There could be corners to cut to save money you might have earned, just with fewer steps.

• Why do you want more?

It’s okay to want to spend more money. And it’s even more okay to need cash to pay for groceries and rent. But if you can’t pinpoint why, you might want to start embracing life outside of work like many others have.

No shame in your game

Earning a bit of extra income could be what you need to stay afloat when times are tough – so start exploring the hustle. Need a hand with money matters? Peachii to the rescue. 🫡