How to Start a Successful Side Hustle

If you've ever thought about starting a side hustle, you're probably motivated by one of three reasons:

1. It's a hobby, and you're feeding your interest during your free time.
2. You're supplementing your primary income. Maybe you have financial goals you want to reach, and having an extra income source will help get you there quicker.
3. You plan to transition into entrepreneurship full time, so you're testing the waters with a side hustle before taking the big leap and quitting your full-time job.

Establish a routine and set goals

Having a routine will help keep you on track. If you start working on your side hustle every evening after dinner, you'll train your mind that after dinner, it's time for work—not time to scroll yourself down another rabbit hole. When your side hustle is part of your routine, it will feel less like a drain on your resources.

Set up processes and automate

It can be tempting to do everything yourself: we sometimes make the mistake of valuing money over time. But time is also a limited commodity. And a side hustle in particular means limited time. Your focus should be on the activities that fulfill you and generate revenue. 

Ask for feedback

A side hustle is a great opportunity for you to do something you love. But, as with any skill, it will take time before you've mastered your craft.

Think long-term

Side hustles don't turn into income-generating businesses overnight. 

With this in mind, you need to play the long game. Ask yourself if your current habits and routine can be sustained for several years—or more. As with any business, your actions have to be guided by a long-term strategy that should motivate you to keep going even when faced with adversity.