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Why Having Side Jobs in Your 20s Is a Good Thing

And How to Get Started

By Sarah BakerPublished 6 years ago 3 min read
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I get it.

You graduated college, you have your whole life ahead of you, but you feel stuck. You wonder what the next step should be. You second guess all your decisions. And then that dreaded two words flashes constantly before your eyes: student loans.

Been there, done that.

I was there a year ago. I graduated with my bachelor's and had big dreams for my life. Then I looked at my account and saw that I owed more than $15,000 in student loans. And that's without interest! I looked at that screen with disappointment. How in the world will I accomplish anything when I have thousands of dollars tied like chains around my neck, weighing me down?

Thankfully, I had a job before graduation in a field that I adore: education. However, teachers do not get paid the greatest especially when you paying student loans, not to mention saving up for an apartment, new car, etc. That's when I started to do some research.

I looked at some jobs that are out there and matched it with my skills. I had previously obtained my ESL certificate, so choosing to teach English online to make more money was a no-brainer! But then I looked at some more jobs over the next few months and applied to get my name out there.

I started growing my social media. I posted more on LinkedIn. I asked other people, including mentors. I read tons of blogs. And mainly did my homework (I know not the most fun!). But I ended up making money and more ways that I could ever imagine!

Now a year later, I not only teach full-time, but work four other side jobs and can live comfortably while paying off my student debt and saving for the future.

What jobs do these include? I currently teach English online to children, college students, and adults who live in China, Japan, and Taiwan. For most companies you only need a bachelor's degree. However, the company I am with you also need your ESL certification. But this is the most flexible and reliable second source of income that I have! I can put in my schedule of when I am free at the beginning of each week (mornings, afternoons, and evenings) and they book me for classes to teach. The best part is that all the lessons are prepared for you!

Another job I have is reselling clothes online. Whether they are my own that I don't wear anymore or thrift store finds, I love that I can make my money back (with interest!) on items that I bought but don't use anymore.

Along with these two jobs, I also started writing with Vocal (recently and love it!) and am a social media ambassador for a few companies on Instagram. Since I am only paid when people use my code or read my post, these are not most steady sources of income. However, I would say that they are the most fun and a great way to express yourself to the world!

Yes, these jobs take a ton of extra work, but not only am I receiving extra income, but I am also honing my skills in various areas in order to accomplish those big dreams that I had when I graduated college. My dreams to travel the world and teach!

Money does not come easily, but depending on what you enjoy, it can be fun! So look at your skills, write down your interests, and do some research. Many side jobs are right at your fingertips, you just need to look.

With all these resources, you can turn those big dreams that you had into the big dreams you now have. Turn your dreams into a reality!

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About the Creator

Sarah Baker

Thanks for reading! I love to write about life while being real and authentic. I love to travel and teach as well. If you like what you read, then go check out my page for my other posts:)

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