Photo via Pixabay by Shaila19
Many single parents across the US find it extremely difficult to split their time between family and work, especially when one job isn’t enough. There’s often a certain amount of guilt and stress that comes with raising a family alone, and when there are financial issues placed on top of that, it can become overwhelming. You may find yourself struggling to work out a schedule that will allow you to get everything done; stress and anxiety may overflow and affect your ability to maintain healthy relationships or stay focused at work.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can make some extra money without sacrificing the time you need to spend with your family. Side gigs have become extremely popular in recent years due to the ease with which anyone can take them on, and many of them can be done from home, which means you can balance your time in a way that suits your needs.
Read on for some great information on how to find the perfect side gig.
Write from Home
If you have a good grasp of grammar and a talent for writing about different topics, you may be able to find a great gig working from home as a blogger or freelance writer. In recent years, thousands of companies have expanded their online presence to include employees who work remotely, and while it means you probably won’t receive extras like health benefits, freelance work is great for single parents because it allows you to set your own hours. Just make sure you have a quiet, comfortable space to work in, as this can help to boost productivity. Creating an office area is a great idea; start with a supportive ergonomic chair, some important office equipment, and some storage so you can stay organized.
Start Your Own Business
These days, starting a business of your own is easier and more accessible than ever. With business platforms popping up all over the internet, you can find ways to make your dream into a reality. If you already have a hobby that would translate well into a business, such as sewing, painting, or woodworking, this is the easiest way to start. Sites like Etsy are wonderful for showcasing handmade items, and the best part is that you can control everything from a comfy spot in your home — and on your own time.
Pet Sitting
If you have the space in your home, pet sitting is a great way to earn some extra cash while still being able to spend time with your family. There are several sites and apps that work with your location to give you the best jobs, and you can earn quite a bit of money if you take in more than one dog. In some cases, you may be able to walk to a nearby home and simply let a dog out while their owner is gone during the day.
Become a Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants perform a number of jobs, but there are many employers who don’t require any experience, and you can work remotely as long as you have the right tools. You might handle calls to clients, send and answer emails, or take care of social media outreach. Determine where your strengths lie and think about how they might benefit a particular company.
Finding a side gig that pays well and still allows you to spend time with your loved ones may take a bit of time and research so you can ensure you find the best fit. Don’t get discouraged! Once you find the right job for your needs, you’ll be so glad you didn’t give up.