How do I make my first dollar outside of my 9-to-5?
Starting to earn your first dollar outside of your 9-to-5 is an exciting step, and it’s often closer than you think. Let’s break it down with actionable steps:
- Identify Your Skills and Interests:
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Take a moment to brainstorm. What skills do you possess that others might find valuable? They don’t have to be directly related to your current job. Consider hobbies, past experiences, or even skills you’d like to develop further. For me, as an engineer, I initially leaned into tech-based freelancing before branching into creative endeavors.
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Start Small and Test the Waters:
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Create a low-risk opportunity to test your idea. This could be offering a small service on a platform like Fiverr or Upwork, or it could mean selling a handmade product on Etsy. Keep it simple and manageable.
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Leverage Your Network:
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Tell friends, family, and colleagues about your new venture. Word of mouth is powerful. When I first started freelancing, most of my initial gigs came from people I already knew. Don’t be shy—people often want to help.
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Use Online Marketplaces and Platforms:
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Depending on your skillset, platforms like Etsy, eBay, Skillshare, or even starting a small blog with affiliate marketing links can be effective. Use these as a means to test your offering.
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Capture Ideas and Develop Them:
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Keep a notebook or digital document where you jot down every idea. This is part of my Capture, Develop, Expose framework. You never know when inspiration will strike, and often, the idea you dismiss today could be your opportunity tomorrow.
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Set a Realistic Goal:
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Aim to make a small, specific amount as your first target—maybe it's just $50. Setting these micro-goals makes the process less overwhelming and more achievable.
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Learn and Adjust:
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Once you make that first dollar, reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Be prepared to pivot. My journey was filled with tweaks and changes before finding what resonated and was profitable.
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Celebrate Small Wins:
- Don’t forget to celebrate that first dollar! It's more than just money; it's a symbol of your ability to create value outside traditional employment.
Remember, success looks different for everyone. Keep experimenting, stay patient, and redefine success on your terms. You've got this!