Side Hustles: When Extra Work Actually Energizes Us

Side hustles are more prevalent than ever. In fact, it’s not uncommon for parents I work with to have a couple in addition to their full time work. Why is this? Well, it has never been easier to start a small side business oftentimes with the hope to transition to this work full-time. 

But, I've noticed an interesting dynamic: while some working parents find their side hustles drain their last reserves of energy, others describe them as a lifeline - a source of hope, creativity, and renewed purpose. The difference often lies not in the work itself, but in how it aligns with their values and how they integrate it into their lives.

The Rise of the Side Hustle

The statistics are striking: According to recent studies, over 45% of working parents have some form of side hustle. This isn't just about extra income (though that's certainly a factor). For many parents, side hustles represent something deeper: a creative outlet, a path to greater autonomy, or a way to explore passions that their primary careers might not fulfill.

When Side Hustles Heal Burnout

Here's a fascinating paradox I've witnessed in my practice: Sometimes, adding more work actually reduces burnout. This seems counterintuitive until we understand that burnout isn't just about being tired - it's about feeling depleted, disconnected, and uninspired.

Research in occupational psychology shows that activities that provide:

• Autonomy

• Creative expression

• Meaningful challenge

• Financial empowerment

can actually increase energy and reduce burnout symptoms, even when they require extra time and effort.

The Technology Revolution

Never before has it been easier to start a micro-business. Digital platforms provide:

• Ready-made marketplaces

• Built-in payment systems

• Marketing tools

• Community connections

This accessibility has democratized entrepreneurship, making it possible to start small and grow organically while maintaining primary employment. 

We’ve also got loads and loads of highly valuable business resources on how to stand out and thrive while building small businesses. The question is, how can we take the hustle out of side work while preserving what we gain in our career story.

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Red Flags: When Side Hustles Hurt

Maybe part of the problem is what we call “side hustles”. By definition, we are expecting ourselves to adapt to business culture which idealizes non-stop work.  If you are looking for freedom, dedicating your time to 

Watch for these warning signs that your side hustle is contributing to burnout:

Sleep Sacrifice

• Consistently trading rest for work

• Difficulty shutting off your mind at night

• Feeling wired but tired

Leisure Extinction

• No more "just for fun" activities

• Guilt when not being productive

• Converting all hobbies into potential profit

Relationship Strain

• Missing important family moments

• Decreased quality time with children

• Partnership tensions

Hidden Hopes

• Reluctance to admit you want this to be your full-time work

• Frustration with the pace of growth

• Anxiety about taking bigger steps

Checking In With Yourself

Starting a side small business is a wonderful way to explore, experiment and eventually find success outside of your full-time work when something is missing.  

If your side hustle is really a dream career in disguise, consider:

1. What additional education or training would help?

2. What financial runway do you need?

3. What support systems need to be in place?

4. What timeline feels realistic and sustainable?

Practical Strategies

So what are some good guidelines when your entrepreneurial ambitions are in action? Based on successful patterns I've observed in my practice, it helps to:

1. Set Clear Boundaries

• Designate specific times for side hustle work

• Create physical workspace boundaries

• Use technology to automate and batch tasks

2. Protect Core Needs

• Non-negotiable sleep schedule

• Regular meals

• Daily movement

• True leisure time

3. Be Thoughtful About Family Integration

• Involve children when appropriate

• Communicate openly with partners

• Schedule family-focused times (PHONES OUT OF SIGHT)

4. Professional Development

• Invest in relevant training

• Join professional networks

• Seek mentorship

5. Regular Assessment

• Monthly revenue review

• Quarterly goal alignment

• Annual strategic planning

Making It Sustainable

The key to a successful side hustle isn't just about the business strategy - it's about creating a sustainable relationship with the work. This means:

• Honoring your energy cycles

• Recognizing seasons of growth and rest

• Building support systems

• Staying connected to your why

When to Seek Support

Consider professional support if you're:

• Struggling to set boundaries

• Experiencing increased anxiety

• Feeling torn between different roles

• Needing help with strategic planning

• Missing out on what REALLY matters to you

Moving Forward

A side hustle can be either a source of burnout or a path to fulfillment - the difference often lies in how we approach it. By staying honest with ourselves, maintaining boundaries, and honoring our needs for rest and connection, we can build something meaningful without sacrificing our wellbeing.

If you're navigating the complexities of building a side hustle while managing career and family life, remember that support is available. Sometimes having a therapeutic or career coaching space to explore these challenges can make the difference between burning out and thriving.