Side gigs can be a lucrative way to earn extra cash or expand your horizons, but is it worth the extra stress to have a side hustle and a full-time job?
Although the last decade has seen the gig economy blossom, the concept of the side gig has existed for ages. Anyone looking to earn more money has found that an additional job of some sort may be a quick and easy way to gain additional financial security.
But working a full-time job and side hustle can be incredibly time consuming. Here’s how to know if doing both may be right for you.
Working “second shift.”
Even if you have time for a side gig, taking it on might not be the healthiest option. Over time, it can become just one more ball to juggle rather than a financial relief or a place to put your passion and energy. Finding the elusive “work-life balance” becomes even more of a challenge and can take a toll on your mental and physical wellness. In fact, that the risk of depression increases when someone works more hours at a stressful job.
We all need to give ourselves a little more grace and realize that working a full-time job and a side hustle isn’t always the right choice.
Is the side gig economy right for you?
If you’re deciding whether adding a side gig to your plate is the right move, consider the following:
1. Do you have an emergency fund?
If you have an emergency fund that can cover at least three to six months of non-discretionary expenses, that’s great. And it might mean that you don’t need to take on a side gig for the sole purpose of gaining extra income. If you don’t currently have an emergency fund—or if it’s not enough to cover the essentials for a few months—then a side gig could be beneficial. Regardless, consider putting your emergency fund in an account that generally pays higher interest.
2. How much do you have saved for retirement?
One suggestion is to try to work up to saving at least 15% of your net income for retirement. If you have access to a 401(k) through your full-time job and your employer offers a match, try to contribute enough to reach your match—and don’t forget that whatever your employer is contributing counts toward your savings target. If you don’t have a retirement plan or can’t save 15% right now, that’s okay, too. We’re all at different places with our careers and savings goals. A side job that helps you bring in extra money can help boost your savings.
3. Can you devote energy to a side gig?
Ultimately, it’s important to determine whether the financial rewards of a full-time job and side hustle outweigh the potential downsides. Burnout is real. It’s important to make sure you have the time and energy not just for work and home life, but for yourself as well.
A version of this article originally appeared on HerMoney.
What’s next?
Do you have an eligible account you’d like to roll over into your Principal® 401(k)? Here’s how to get started: and click on the 401(k) account card on the left side. Scroll down to the “Consolidate your accounts” tile and click “Start your rollover now.”
