Side hustles can easily be part-time work or grow into full-time businesses, which is why I have always loved juggling a few side hustles at a time.
By the time I was ready to become a full time mompreneur, I knew which income streams had the best growth potential. I also had foundations in several businesses so I wasn't starting from zero.
You’ve likely heard that you can start a business investing only a few hours a day, which is true. But there is more to running a business than that.
You’ll need dedication, hard work, and passion for what you are doing if you truly want your part-time business to become a full-time living.
So, before jumping into the first side hustle you learn about, let’s look at some business ideas that can become full-time.
1. Social Media Manager
Businesses are constantly looking for help with their social media presence. Offer your services as a social media manager to curate content, engage with followers, and increase visibility on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
Plus, with graphic design software like Canva and automatic scheduling tools like Tailwind, you can take on several clients and work a fraction of the time!
2. Website Designer or Developer
Many small businesses don't have the means to hire a full-time website designer or developer. With that in mind, offer your independent services as a freelancer creating custom websites for clients. Or, for long-term work with less searching for new clients, you can even just provide maintenance and updating services for existing sites.
3. Blogging
With the rise of social media and online content, starting a blog is now a time-tested way to make money on the side. This is (obviously) one of the side-hustles I am personally invested in. However, it's definitely not full-time right away, and many bloggers don't make it to that stage!
Monetize your blog through advertising, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or even selling your own products and services.
4. E-commerce Store
Thanks to platforms like Shopify, setting up an e-commerce store has never been easier. Whether selling physical products or digital downloads, use social media and advertising to drive traffic to your online store. If you drive enough traffic and offer the right products, you will start making a profit.
Not too technological? Jump onto Etsy instead. You will never have to worry about all of the behind-the-scenes of launching a new website. Plus, there are already millions of shoppers on the Etsy marketplace.
If Etsy sounds like a fun option to you, read my Ultimate Guide to Starting an Etsy Shop post. It's packed full of tips and tricks for selling both physical and digital products.
5. Filming YouTube Videos
Vlogging and filming creative YouTube videos can earn you ad revenue and sponsorships. While it may take some time to build a following, once you have established yourself as a content creator, the income potential is unlimited.
Don't like to be on-screen yourself? Make a small investment in good equipment and you can sell your services to local businesses or take on freelance projects.
6. Virtual Assistant
Small businesses and entrepreneurs often need help with administrative tasks like scheduling appointments, managing email, and conducting research. Offer your skills as a virtual assistant to multiple clients for consistent income.
7. Handmade Crafts
Sell handmade jewelry, artwork, knitted items, or other crafts through online marketplaces like Etsy or at local craft fairs. Consider offering custom orders for a personalized touch.
8. Photography
Do you have a knack for taking good photos? Invest in a DSLR camera and start ffering your photography services for events, portraits, or product photography.
Or, to stay flexible and work on your own time, you can also sell your own prints. If you take a lot of photographs that bloggers would love, find commercial-use sites (like ShutterStock) that will pay you commission or royalties every time your photo is downloaded through their site.
9. Freelance Writing and Editing
Are you a skilled writer or editor? Offer your services to clients in need of content creation or editing.
You can find opportunities through job boards, networking, and pitching to businesses directly. Personally, I have been using UpWork for years and love the flexibility it allows. Just pitch for the jobs that fit your interests and expertise, and ignore the rest!
10. Online Tutoring
With the rise of online education platforms, there is a demand for online tutors in a variety of subjects. Share your knowledge and make money by offering tutoring sessions through video chat.
11. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Do you love animals? Offer pet sitting or dog walking services. There are tons of busy pet owners in your area. This is an excellent option for those with a flexible schedule and a love for furry friends. Check out Thumbtack.com to find others offering services in your area and to sign up yourself.
12. Graphic Design
Put your design skills to use by creating graphics for small businesses or individuals needing logos, websites, print materials, and more. Offer your services via your website, word-of-mouth, and online marketplaces like Fiverr, Upwork, and Facebook Marketplace.
13. Consulting
Use your expertise in a specific industry to offer consulting services to clients needing advice and guidance. This can be done remotely or in person, depending on the type of consulting you offer.
14. Event Planning and Catering
Do you have a knack for organization and attention to detail? Offer event planning services for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, and more. Consider offering catering services as well for a complete package.
As you can see, the opportunities for part-time businesses are endless. It may take effort and dedication to turn your side hustle into a full-time income, but it is certainly possible. So pursue that passion project and make it your livelihood. You never know where the opportunities available today due to technology may lead you.
