In the litany of one-liners spoken at college commencements, here is one told to me years ago that I haven’t been able to verify but am also unable to forget: “This generation will go to their grave with their options open.” It was purportedly said at a Yale graduation — a group that would likely have had many options.
The notion of “leaving one’s options open” has morphed into a noteworthy trend called the “side hustle.” The side hustle is loosely translated as activities undertaken outside of a person’s main job to earn additional income or satisfy a passion.
Side hustles can lead to a new career path or simply test a fantasy-like, “I want to be the leader of a band.” The accountant by day becomes a photographer by night. A teacher hires himself out as an elite caterer on weekends.
Some typical side hustles include driving for Uber, tutoring, dog sitting, freelance writing, and buying and reselling stuff.
Side hustles are more prevalent than one might think. The Harris poll estimates one in three people have side hustles, and over 61 million people plan to start a side hustle in 2021.
It is not difficult to identify the positives of the side-hustle. The decision to undertake a mini-venture encourages innovation and fosters continuous learning and an expanded social network.
The side hustler has a broader perspective about people, business, and life itself. No parent required — well kind of. The move also serves as a hedge in case the day job goes south. Even if the hustle doesn’t pay the same, it opens new paths and can reduce anxiety.
Still, there is a downside if you believe in Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000 hours. He asserts that committing time and practice are essential for mastery. Since a day still has only 24 hours, including sleep, there are only so many ways we can divvy up our time.
There is also the risk of burnout. If we are constantly working, when do we refuel our tank? A recent survey by Spring Health cites 76 percent of U.S. workers are experiencing burnout.
But different times call for different voices and different marches. The side hustle is here for the duration.
Jill Ebstein is the editor of the “At My Pace” series of books and the founder of Sized Right Marketing, a Newton, Massachusetts.
