Effortlessly Juggling a Side Hustle Insights and Tips from Experts and Successful Entrepreneurs

Efficient Side Hustle Management Expert Tips & Insights from Seasoned Side Hustlers

Burnt out woman looking at computer while rubbing her temple

Invest in Your Well-being: Living the Dream of a 9-5 Job and a Side Hustle

Who says you can’t have it all? Some people are living the dream, working a 9-5 job and pursuing their passion projects on the side. It’s like having your cake and eating it too. But let’s be real, it’s not always a walk in the park. There are only so many hours in a day, and balancing it all can be quite the challenge.

Lauren McAlister, senior marketing content specialist at Mindbody + ClassPass and co-owner of McAlister Training, knows this all too well. “Owning a studio and working a full-time job is no joke,” she says. “But hey, our workouts make people feel stronger and confident. And there’s nothing more rewarding than that. My life is chaotic, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

You know what they say, where there’s a will, there’s a way. So let’s take a closer look at these multitasking superheroes and get some expert advice on how to live our best lives.

Focus on Small Gains

Take Julia Cavalieri, for example. After leaving her 9-5 job in hospitality, she launched her marketing and PR agency Tropical Disco Media and started Palisade Kombucha with her partner. On top of that, she’s leading yoga events and teaching at studios. It’s a lot to handle, and there’s always more to be done. But Julia doesn’t stress. She believes that every little step she takes each day adds up to something bigger. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.

Practice What You Preach: Focus on Yourself Too

As a well-being professional, Julia knows the importance of self-care. She makes sure to schedule time for workouts and her yoga practice. It keeps her feeling ready to conquer the world. She’s got her life organized with multiple calendars, color coding, and reminders. And when her body needs rest, she listens. Knowing when to stop and when to push through is the key to maintaining balance.

Do a Reality Check

Before diving headfirst into your side hustle, ask yourself, “Am I fulfilling my responsibilities to my family, work, household, physical and mental health, and other creative talents?” It’s important to find a balance and make sure your side hustle doesn’t become a burden. Lynn Berger, a career counselor and coach, suggests keeping everything in check and prioritizing your commitments.

Work on the Business—Not Just in the Business

Diawn Jones knows how to make it work. She’s the operations director for a medical office during the day, but she also owns a gym called Soza Fitness & Wellness. On top of that, she offers holistic healing and herbalist consultations through her business, the Hippie Chemist. She spends about 20 hours a week working on her ventures while her staff runs the gym. It’s all about building a team and focusing on the big picture.

Create a Community (& Give Back)

For Diawn, her full-time job helps fund her gym and other ventures. But it’s not easy juggling multiple roles. She emphasizes the importance of having a support system that understands your lifestyle. It’s all worth it because she’s making a difference in people’s lives. She advises making your side hustle your passion and even incorporating a nonprofit element to give back to your community.

Create a Business Model That Works for You

Amy Pocsik, founder of Bold Moves business and entrepreneurial coaching, suggests aligning your business with the way you love to work. Surround yourself with the right people, as nobody achieves success alone. Focus on your strengths, and seek support in other areas.

Don’t Be Afraid to Just Get Started

Alyssa Baker, founder of Riot Media Group, took a leap of faith during the pandemic. She moved across the country and started Aura Self & Soul Care, a studio and boutique focused on community and healing. Even though she had fears and uncertainties, she didn’t let them hold her back. She advises not waiting for everything to be perfect before starting. Embrace the unknown and take that first step towards your dreams.

Plan Your Own Performance Reviews

Take time to assess what’s working well, what isn’t, and what self-care practices you want to commit to. Octavia Goredema, a career coach, suggests doing this examination every six months. It’s important to recognize your progress and make adjustments along the way.

So there you have it—a glimpse into the lives of those who are living the dream of a 9-5 job and a side hustle. It’s not always easy, but with the right mindset and some expert advice, you can find your own balance and live your best life. Remember, where there’s a will, there’s always a way.