Side hustles sound great until they interrupt your life. Maybe you start something new, only to realize it’s draining, disorganized or straight up not worth your time.
If you’re thinking of making some extra money to pay down debt, you need a guide to test your side hustle before committing to it. Here’s how to figure out if that opportunity is worth it for you — and your debt plan.
Step 1: Set a Low-Risk Trial Window
A short trial period can tell you a lot about the job that you wouldn’t otherwise understand. Give yourself some time to settle in and learn if the systems — and the people who run them — operate professionally, efficiently and respect your time. A trial can also tell you if it’s worth investing in gear or supplemental courses to make the most of your time on the job.
Beware of jobs that ask too much commitment upfront or require you to buy-in: Your energy and money could almost certainly be better spent elsewhere. Tracking your mental and physical health during the trial can tell you if the job can work in your life — or if it’ll burn you out.
Step 2: Use a “Test Budget” for Time and Energy
There are only so many hours in a day, and finding balance between work and pleasure during a day is key to creating a stable income stream. So before you say yes to anything, write down:
- When you’ll do it (nights, weekends, lunch breaks?)
- What you might need to give up (TV time, errands, sleep?)
This is your test-drive budget. If it already feels like too much, pause or pick something smaller.
Step 3: Track Just Two Things
Skip the spreadsheets. During your trial, track how much money you made and how you felt after each session or shift.
How much you enjoy your work can be a major indicator to its value in your life. A viable side gig will feel like an easy yes, or at the least, an inoffensive one. If you find yourself dreading your next shift, it might be time to reevaluate your options.
Step 4: Ask Yourself These 3 Questions at the End
As your trial period ends, take a step back and ask:
- Was it worth the effort?
- Would I want to do this again next month?
- Did it actually help me move closer to my debt goal?
If the answer is yes, build on it. If not, drop it guilt-free and try something new.
Why Trialing Works for Debt Payoff
You don’t need a perfect side hustle, just one that works well enough to keep you moving forward. Testing first helps you avoid starting big, quitting fast and losing momentum. Remember: It’s the small, steady progress that can help you achieve your goals. Be patient, stay engaged and be kind to yourself — you’ve got this!
And if your debts are too overwhelming for a side gig to fix, give us a call. Debt consolidation can help you get ahead faster — and save money in the process. Professional support is here when you need it!