
Whether you’re looking for more financial freedom, supplemental cash for personal goals, or a way to build savings, a side hustle—work done “on the side” of your primary full-time job—can help cushion your income. However, when your side hustle begins gaining traction and becoming a real moneymaker, it may be time to consider ditching your current 9-to-5.
Here’s what it takes to make your side hustle your full-time job.
What are the benefits of starting out as a side hustle?
A side hustle offers a low-risk way to try your hand at entrepreneurship and explore new professional avenues you may not otherwise have. These new experiences and greater levels of responsibility boost your skill set as you gain new expertise.
Being in charge of your side hustle also requires interacting with contacts from all different industries, including vendors, clients, and mentors, providing you with ample networking and learning opportunities. All of this can be extremely valuable whether you continue to pursue your current career path or decide to become a full-time business owner.
Scalable side hustle ideas
There is limitless potential when it comes to creating a scalable side business. Below are just a few ideas:
- Start an e-commerce business. If you have a product or service to sell—from virtual consulting to curated subscription boxes—make it available for online purchase.
- Offer custom designs. Many third-party services offer options to produce and ship products on creators’ behalf (for a low cost)—all you have to do is provide the designs, and they handle the rest.
- Become a digital creator. Whether you want to teach a cooking course or build a community to support a cause, leveraging social media can help you grow a strong customer base.
[Read more: 25 Steps to Starting a New Business]
Plan financially for everything to take two times longer than you think it will. Your business plan and projections are just that—a plan, but things almost never go as planned.
Liz Young, Founder & CEO of Realm
While a side hustle into a successful business can be rewarding, transforming it into a successful business comes with numerous challenges along the way. According to Paul Miller, Managing Partner at Miller and Company, LLP, managing time constraints, hiring and scaling with the right personnel, and finding work-life balance are just a few of the biggest obstacles you’re likely to face when taking your side hustle full-time.
Here are a few tips to help you on your path to becoming your own boss.
Be self-disciplined
A side hustle has less structure, as you’re fully in control and call the shots. Without self-discipline and a well-thought-out business strategy, this level of responsibility can be hard to manage.
“Be extremely disciplined in your early days as an entrepreneur—create routines,” said Liz Young, Founder and CEO of Realm. “You're the only person at the company, [but] it's OK [to] still have … daily stand-up[s or] still require a weekly business metrics report as if there were others reading it.”
Stand out in a saturated market
Side hustles are an accessible option for those wanting to expand their portfolios or earn extra income, but the market is crowded. To differentiate your business, create a truly unique idea.
“Build a strong base,” said Rene Lacad, CEO and Founder of Lacad Consulting. “Be very sure of your business model, well aware of your customers, and sure that your side business is bringing in steady income to support the industry and your needs.”
Manage your time
Successfully transitioning your side hustle into a scalable business takes time and effort. Balancing this with a full-time job or a busy schedule can make it challenging to manage both your employer’s demands and your own business.
“Ensure you are ready to spend time and money on yourself,” Lacad said. “This may be acquiring new knowledge, contacting an expert to mentor you, or joining other people with similar mindsets.”
Prepare for financial hurdles
While your side hustle may have earned you money, taking it full-time makes you entirely dependent on one income source. Confirm you’re in good financial standing before making this leap to avoid future economic challenges.
“Plan financially for everything to take two times longer than you think it will,” Young advised. “Your business plan and projections are just that—a plan, but things almost never go as planned.”
[Read more: Starting a Business? A Guide to Business Licenses and Permits]
CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here.

