Discover how a kindergarten teacher turned nap-time side hustle into a $10,400 monthly income stream.
In 2016, kindergarten teacher Becky Powell discovered an unexpected way to make extra income during her maternity leave. Fast forward eight years, and what started as a part-time endeavor on Teachers Pay Teachers has grown into a six-figure business for her family. Powell's journey reveals how teachers, moms, and anyone with creativity can turn spare hours into a steady income stream—an inspiring example for women looking to tap into the gig economy.
Becky Powell’s story began when a friend suggested she explore Teachers Pay Teachers—a digital marketplace where teachers share and sell their resources. Powell used her expertise to create literacy worksheets under her store "Sight Word Activities." What started as a trickle of income soon covered small bills, and before long, Powell was earning over $10,400 per month!
Powell’s success encouraged her husband, Jerome, to join in, adding an additional $50,000 annually with his store, "Editable Activities." Together, their side hustle has created financial freedom, enabling them to pay off student loans, accelerate their mortgage, and even treat their kids to a dream Disneyland trip.
The Secret to Their Success? Powell emphasizes staying authentic and drawing on her experience to create quality resources. Her classroom serves as a testing ground, ensuring her products are valuable and effective for young learners. Jerome’s SEO skills also played a key role, helping their products rank high in searches.
If Powell’s journey resonates with you, consider one of these 42 side hustles that fit into busy schedules and cater to various skills. These ideas align with 2024 trends and have great potential for monetization.
Blogging: Share expertise in a niche topic, monetize through ads, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing. Check out our guide on blogging for passive income here.
Virtual Assisting: Help businesses remotely with administrative or technical tasks.
Content Writing: Earn income by writing for blogs, businesses, or publications.
Tutoring: Offer online or in-person tutoring in subjects you excel in.
Affiliate Marketing: Promote products and earn a commission on each sale made through your referral.
Graphic Design: Design logos, social media graphics, or marketing materials for small businesses.
Web Design: Develop websites for clients looking to establish their online presence.
Social Media Management: Manage and grow social media accounts for brands.
Online Courses: Create educational courses for platforms like Udemy and Teachable.
Resume/CV Writing: Help job seekers with tailored resumes to land their dream roles.
Photography: Provide professional photography services for events or businesses.
Bookkeeping Services: Offer bookkeeping for small businesses needing help with finances.
Voice-over Artist: Use your voice talent for audiobooks, commercials, or animation.
Jewelry Making: Sell handmade jewelry online or at local craft fairs.
Selling on Etsy: Open an Etsy shop for handmade items, digital products, or vintage finds.
Rideshare Driving: Drive for rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.
Pet Sitting: Care for pets while their owners are away.
Childcare/Elder Care: Offer babysitting or elder care services locally.
Rental Property Hosting: Rent a room or property on Airbnb.
Home Organizing: Start a business organizing and decluttering spaces.
Proofreading: Polish content for authors, students, or businesses.
Event Planning: Organize and coordinate events for clients.
Makeup Artist: Provide makeup services for weddings, photoshoots, or special events.
Interior Design: Help clients design or redecorate their spaces.
Author: Write and self-publish books or e-books.
Selling on Amazon: Start an Amazon business with the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program.
Personal Styling: Offer styling advice to clients looking to enhance their wardrobe.
Errand Running: Run errands for individuals who need extra assistance.
AI Prompt Engineering: Create prompts for AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants.
Handmade Products: Create and sell soaps, candles, or other crafts online.
Drone Videography: Capture aerial footage with a drone for real estate or special events.
Podcasting: Start a podcast and monetize through ads, sponsorships, or Patreon.
YouTube Content Creation: Build a YouTube channel around a passion topic.
Personal Fitness Coaching: Offer virtual or in-person fitness sessions.
Editing Services: Edit and format manuscripts, essays, or articles.
App Development: Develop apps or software solutions for small businesses.
Building and Flipping Websites: Buy, build, and sell profitable websites or blogs.
Freelance Consulting: Provide consulting services in a field you specialize in.
Airbnb Co-hosting: Manage bookings and guest interactions for Airbnb hosts.
Car Detailing: Offer car detailing services locally.
Online Marketplaces for Vintage Items: Buy and resell vintage items on platforms like Poshmark or Depop.
Digital Marketing: Help businesses boost their online presence with SEO, PPC, or social media marketing.
Many people begin side hustles to earn extra income, but transforming a side hustle into a lifestyle business can provide true freedom. By dedicating more resources, you can scale your side hustle and create a sustainable, high-earning business. Here’s how to make the transition:
Set Clear Goals: Know your financial and personal goals to stay motivated.
Optimize for SEO: Just as Jerome did, learn the basics of SEO to get your products and services noticed online.
Establish a Schedule: Lifestyle businesses offer flexibility, but a schedule helps you grow sustainably.
Invest in Skills: Consider upskilling in areas like digital marketing, graphic design, or business management to improve your offerings.
With time and persistence, these side hustles can become long-term sources of income, giving you the freedom to live life on your own terms.
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