One of my children has ADHD. Managing his condition over the years has been challenging, but as he gets older it’s getting a little better. Why do I mention this? Because sometimes I wonder if I have a bit of it myself. I used to say that it took me 35 years to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up. I had that dream job for two years, until a regime change at my company orchestrated a reorganization and my job changed. Now, I don’t know what I want.
Do what you love. Find your passion. Convergence. How can I do what I love or find my passion when I seem to change my mind every few years? And how can I ask my husband to put up with (another) career change? One that may have a significant negative effect on our family finance. What about all the work and sacrifices we’ve made to get me where I am now? (Getting my CMA and MBA as a mom was a joint effort, I promise!) And what if, in five more years, I don’t love what I’m doing? What then?
I had a flash of inspiration last Monday – perhaps I could find a way to turn my passion for running, and triathlon, plus my personal weight loss success, into a viable side hustle. I’ve been writing a healthy living/fitness blog for 18 months but have never made an effort to monetize it. I’m not even sure I want to.
So what can I do? how can I find a way to turn my passion into a decent side income? I started brainstorming, and came up with some ideas:
- Menu plans. When you’re trying to lose weight, food is where you have to start. Not all diets suit all people, which is one of the reasons the weight loss industry is worth billions. But custom weekly menu plans? I thought this was viable.
- Running instructor. Our local running store offers regular clinics and needs group leaders and instructors.
- Triathlon coach (online or in person). If there is a coach in Winnipeg who does this, I’ve never seen an ad. I figure we can’t be the only triathletes who’d like a coach.
- Yoga instructor. I love yoga, and at least one of my studios offers instructor classes.
- Personal trainer. Same idea as 2, 3, & 4.
All of these are things related to my hobbies and passions. It sounds good – bit can I do this? Stay tuned for the Plan!
Interesting. I think it’s a good idea to change it into a side hustle but I’m not sold that you need to have a job you have a passion for. I doubt that really exists for most people.
You may be right. I know I considered myself lucky until our restructure – I loved coming in to work every day. I also sometimes wonder if all these lifestyle blogs are selling an impossible dream – but then, is it impossible only because we refuse to chase it? Getting a little deep today.
I hope you can turn all of those into great side gigs! I need to turn my passions into money making ideas.
I’m working on it – some of them I can start on fairly easily.
I have also thought about turning my passion into a side hustle. I always wanted to become a pilates instructor or a group fitness instructor. I can’t wait to hear more about it
I know what you mean about that joint effort though. The BF puts up with me and my spur of the moment decisions. I’m glad he’s always on board with me.
It’s hard when you have someone else to consider – but his support has been so key in my success, that on the rare event he disagrees with one of my ideas, I know he has a good reason!
Good luck! Sounds like you’re motivated. Keep us posted!
I’d posit that, after a certain point, there’s a negative correlation between the extrinsic benefits (e.g. salary) and instrinsic benefits (e.g. “Wow I love this job”). I’d love to walk puppies all day, but it wouldn’t earn as much as pipefitting on the oil sands (which would be dirty, cold, harsh, remote work — but extremely well compensated).
I think what you propose is an extremely good strategy. You’ll indulge your passion during your free time, which you should do for your mental and physical health anyway. You’ll also earn some money which is an awesome change. Most importantly you’re being responsible by keeping your day job that earns but isn’t as much fun.
Oh, I agree – that’s part of my issue. I earn too much to “do what I love”. And I like the lifestyle my income allows us to have! So this could be the best of both worlds, I hope.
This sounds like such a good plan. I can’t wait to be kept updated on how you are doing. I’ve considered the personal training or at least working at the gym for some weekend work. I currently really like my main job so it’s not too much of an issue for me.
I’m so glad that you have the support you need.
As a side note, my youngest brother has ADHD. We found it easier to get him to focus/learn by turning his passions into a teaching lesson. He liked getting money at a younger age so we taught him math by using coins/dollars. Worked like a charm!
Finding ways to work around the condition has been challenging, but we’ve been creative too. It’s getting better as he’s getting older.
I’m really excited about getting this off the ground though!
Pingback: The Plan Part 2 – Triathlon Coach, Yoga Instructor, Personal Trainer | Balancing Money and Life
Pingback: Starting to Come Together – Side Hustles | Balancing Money and Life