When I was growing up I used to think you go to college, get your degree and get that one great job that will be the start of your career that you'd work at for years to come and then retire. That was it - your one skill set, industry and so on. But what a distorted thought I had.
Once I got settled into my career path and began to get out and network with other professionals I started to encounter not one but two business cards at our departure, often times hearing "I work in Finance by day and I am an interior designer on the side" or "I am an Account Manager and I teach English at a junior college". On the side! What are you talking about, when do you have time, could I do that and many other questions crossed my mind. I then realized that we can indeed do any job or as many jobs as we good and well pleased. I mean, when I was in college I can remember holding down 2 or three jobs at a time - but that was things like working in a deli at the supermarket, tutoring football players or telemarketing, all part-time. But these were adults - trained professionals in some skill or trade or many in fact.
I began to question my thinking all along. I realized that my view of holding down multiple jobs or "hustlin'" meant you needed to earn more money to supplement your main income versus the fact that one has many talents and passions that don't have to be given up just because you've secured a full time job! So, of course I got to thinking - I have things I love to do that I am good at, if I say so myself, and there is nothing wrong with earning extra money!
According to merriam-webster dictionary online search, hustle means "to make strenuous efforts to obtain - especially money or business" (as applicable to this entry). If working forty plus hours a week and then putting in another 20-30 hours into your own side gig isn't strenuous efforts - I don't know what is. People are expanding their work scope to include additional passions and added income potential. Often times your career although you like it - does not satisfy all of your interest. I once read that if you have a hobby or interest something that you enjoy doing, why not make money doing it. Whether it be card making, a cleaning business that is done on the weekends, real estate sales, or investments, freelance writers, web developers, secret shoppers, personal shoppers, teachers and professors, event planning, making jewelry or selling Avon or MaryKay, etc. I would imagine if you are good at it - go for it!
Staying busy will keep you sharp and keep you from becoming stagnant or status quo. Keeping busy with meaningful and enjoyable work and tasks also increases a happier disposition. All while remaining financially sound, increasing your wealth, and preparing for the future.
So I say - get your "Hustle" on! Wish me luck on my state real estate exam!
A "tongue-in-cheek" perspective on the corporate world, careers and office behavior.
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