Mastering the Mindset: 9 Key Shifts for a $100k Side Hustle
Written on
Chapter 1: My Journey to a $100k Side Business
I consider myself quite ordinary. I didn’t attend an elite high school (in fact, mine was closed due to poor performance), and I don’t come from wealth. Yet, over the past three years, I've successfully built an online brand that generated $100,000 in revenue last year after monetization. I still work a 9-to-5 job and have no immediate plans to change that. If you're in a similar position and are curious about how to get started on your own side business, here are nine lesser-known mindset shifts that have guided me.
Section 1.1: Utilize a Timer for Enhanced Focus
One tool I swear by is the Focus Keeper app. It displays a timer on my phone for 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break. I tend to get easily distracted, so this method helps me concentrate in short bursts, allowing me to accomplish a significant amount in a relatively short time.
Section 1.2: Prepare for Off Days
Every dream has its challenges. My professional life has never been better; I enjoy writing and my day job. Still, there are days when I feel lost and question my direction. The key is to anticipate these days. Accept them as part of the journey rather than resisting them.
Subsection 1.2.1: Avoid the "Novelty Effect"
Previously, I would enthusiastically pursue a business idea only to abandon it once the initial excitement faded. I learned that every new venture feels promising at first; this is known as the Novelty Effect. The challenge lies in sticking with your ideas after that initial thrill has worn off.
Subsection 1.2.2: Rethink Expectancy Theory
Expectancy Theory suggests that effort leads to reward. While this is true, the relationship is not straightforward. In the short term, you may not see immediate rewards for your efforts. However, over the long haul, consistent effort will yield results—often after a span of 24 months or longer.
Section 1.3: Focus on Meaning, Not Metrics
Pursuing statistics can be counterproductive. The true reward from any endeavor comes from the joy and learning it brings. For the first year, it’s best to disregard the numbers and concentrate on the experience and growth.
Section 1.4: Extend Your Timeline
You’ve been misled if you think success happens overnight. If you expect to achieve your goals in a year, consider doubling that timeframe. Embracing a long-term perspective can lead to more sustainable success.
Chapter 2: Embracing Content and Chaos
Content isn’t static. Understanding that each piece can evolve over time frees you from the pressure of constantly generating new ideas. Instead of viewing content in isolation, see it as part of a larger narrative.
The first video titled "4 Mindset Shifts That Helped Me Make A Million Before 30" offers insights into the mental frameworks necessary for achieving financial success.
The second video titled "The Mindset Shift That FINALLY Helped Me Make Money Online" discusses the transformative ideas that can propel your online business forward.
Section 2.1: Accept the Chaos
My mind often feels like a whirlwind of tasks. For instance, in the past 20 minutes alone, I've thought about creating a new call-to-action for my website, figuring out how to gamify a course, and enhancing the value of my newsletter. Managing a full-time job alongside a side business can lead to an endless to-do list.
Section 2.2: Define Your Own Rules
Whenever I mention my side income, I often hear, "Why don’t you quit your day job?" It’s a valid question but reflects a common narrative about the 9-to-5 lifestyle. I’ve learned to create my own rules. I work my day job while dedicating mornings and weekends to writing, and that suits my current lifestyle perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Starting a part-time business is entirely feasible, and I am living proof of that. It’s as much about the right mindset as it is about strategy. If you’re eager to pursue your passion, don’t let anything hold you back. If you want to build your venture without leaving your day job, consider joining over 18,000 creators in the Part-Time Creator Club for more resources and guidance.