Joys of the Side Hustle
If you’ve heard the term “side hustle” but aren’t quite sure what it means—or if you’re wondering whether it’s something for you—let me start by saying this: A side hustle is simply any work you do outside your main job to earn extra income, explore a passion, or test out new ideas. It could be self-employment like coaching, crafting, freelance writing, or consulting—anything that taps into your skills and interests. I’ve also heard it used to describe people who work full-time and spend a few hours a week doing food delivery or ride-sharing.
I’ve seen some concern online about using the word “hustle” in this context, and I do think the word can carry a negative connotation. For example, the word can be associated with burnout culture, and it overlooks the fact that for many people, having more than one job to make ends meet is not optional. But for this post, I’m going to go ahead and use the term “hustle” to mean that extra energy, drive, or motivation we find when we’re building something meaningful outside our day job.
My side hustle is financial coaching. Over the years, it’s brought me so much more than a little extra money. Here are four joys of the side hustle that I can relate to.
1. Financial Breathing Room
When I first started financial coaching on the side, I wasn’t chasing huge paydays (and I’m still not)—I just wanted a little extra flexibility. With a big family and all the usual bills and activities, my budget was pretty tight. The extra income I’ve earned through coaching has allowed me to contribute more to retirement savings each month and, just as importantly, to consistently set aside money for a travel fund.
That travel fund gave our recent family trip to Greece a big boost, making it less stressful and more fun. We built in a 10% buffer for surprises —and knowing we had saved for the trip ahead of time let me fully relax and enjoy every moment. We came home, sifted through our photos, reminisced about our favourite moments—and there were no credit card bills waiting for us.
2. A Creative Outlet
I’ve never thought of myself as particularly creative. I’m the structures, analytical, organized one at work and at home and I don’t think many others would describe me as particularly creative either. But my side hustle has awakened a part of me I didn’t expect.
Writing this blog, designing my website, and building coaching programs has been energizing—even if I’m not super consistent, and even if the blog doesn’t rake in tons of views. It’s been a refreshing change of pace and a chance to express myself in new ways.
3. An Example for My Kids
One of the most meaningful joys of this side hustle has been showing my kids what it looks like to follow an idea and build something from it. They see me juggling this endeavour alongside my day job and family life. More than that—they know that a lot of the money I earn is going right back into experiences we all get to enjoy, like travel.
I’m mindful not to let the business interfere too much with family life, and they’ve been flexible and generous during the times when it does. I hope that, in seeing this unfold, they learn that you don’t have to wait for “perfect timing” to start something meaningful and that a little hustle can go a long way.
4. Autonomy and Ownership
Finally, I treasure the autonomy this side hustle gives me. This coaching business is mine completely. I get to decide when to step on the gas and when to take a breath.
Sometimes life gets busy and I scale back. Other times, I feel inspired and dive in deeper. The successes—and the failures—are mine to own, and that responsibility has helped me grow in confidence.
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