Having extra cash is always welcome, particularly when you are a teenager. The best way to do that is to find a side hustle. Besides letting you earn some money, it introduces you to the concept of a job while gathering work experience and establishing your own identity, in a way. It is also an extremely productive way of spending any spare time you have. However, it is essential to select the right one. Here are a few things to keep in mind while choosing the best side hustles for teens.
Can you devote enough time to it?
Find a side gig to which you can devote the right amount of time. If you select a gig that requires you to spend more time than you can, it won’t serve the purpose. Always remember that this is an addition to your routine besides other things. It should never interfere with your schooling, sports, or other related activities. A few hours for any work you select should usually be enough.
Go for a flexible side gig
Although this might seem a continuation of the earlier point, yet it deserves a separate mention. Any side gig you choose should be flexible in terms of work hours. What that means is, it should not have a fixed and inflexible deadline or schedule. You should be able to accommodate it easily within your existing routine. Before settling for a job, ask your employer if they would be okay with a bit of adjustment.
Create a list of things you enjoy
A side hustle is meant to provide you with an idea of how to earn money. In a way, it introduces you to the concept of a job. That is why it is better to go with something you enjoy or have a natural liking for. It could be delivering newspapers, washing cars, cutting grass, babysitting, lawn mowing, or becoming a party character. One way of doing this is creating a list of things you enjoy and selecting items from that list. In some cases, you might have a hobby that you could turn into a hustle.
How to find a side hustle?
Do a little research to find a side hustle that suits your time and arouses your interest in some way. One way of doing this is talking to your neighbors and asking them if they need help with any chores. You could also head to the local stores and check if they require a helping hand. Websites like Craigslist also mention side gigs at times and can be handy while searching for one. If your friends are involved in similar side hustles, you can also request them to look out for you.
How much should you charge for a side hustle?
After you have searched for a gig, do not be hesitant to settle for a price that you feel is reasonable. However, it’s important to also not be obstinate at the same time. Try asking your friends or someone you can trust if the price being offered is fair enough. Let them know the nature of work and the hours you plan on putting in. If nothing else, it would be a great learning experience for you.
These are some pointers to remember when it comes to finding the best side hustles for teens. A side gig, when chosen, keeping one’s purpose and intention in mind will instill discipline, work ethic, motivation, interview skills, and self-confidence in you. These lessons go a long way in shaping one’s personality, character, and industry-relevant skill sets. Therefore, it should be done with the utmost enthusiasm and sincerity.
