Having multiple jobs does not mean you're cheating

You are not cheating if you have a job and a business (or do more than one thing)

When did it become a source of embarrassment to admit that we might do more than one thing to earn an income?

I don’t know about you, but when it came to GCSE and A level choices, I really struggled to “specialise.” Yes, I can’t draw a flower but I’d have loved to do Art. I wanted to spend 4 periods a week doing Drama, but I couldn’t as it was “in a different option block to Music.” Then came A levels, where I wanted to explore so many subjects, only to be limited to four (and then three - that’s right, I was the first year of AS levels if that ages me!)

I have always felt like a bit of a “rebel” because I choose to have a portfolio career.

But heres the thing - whether or not you’ve chosen to, having more than one way of making money, and more specifically still - if you need a job to support your income alongside your business - is far from cheating. It is perfectly normal.

I also think a lot of damage has been done by the term “side-hustle.” Often, when we start our businesses, they run along the side of other commitments - a 9-5 job, looking after children, or other caring responsibilities, and it can be another “thing” to fit into the week. Describing our beautiful, creative business a “side-hustle” is ICKY, it doesn’t do it justice. Because it sits in our hearts so centrally - how could it ever be a side thing?

Here’s what might help you:

1. Embrace your business as your primary source of income:

   If you want your business to be your only source of income (and note that I don’t say “full-time work” because you get to decide how you run your own business), then imagine a future where that business is running exactly as you’d like. Picture a life where your income is coming solely from your business, and you have easily built in time for rest. Trust that this future can and will happen. It doesn’t require blind faith; instead, allow yourself to believe that one day, this will be your reality.

2. Embrace your multifaceted self:

   If this is already your reality - how can you embrace it with joy and openness? Celebrate your ability to pursue various interests and income streams. How wonderful you are that you are able to do these different things - how fabulous! You’re a multifaceted individual, and that’s something to be proud of!

3. Find balance and nourishment:

   If you’re juggling more than one thing and it’s starting to feel a bit much, take a step back. Reflect on what’s being nourished and what’s being neglected. What could help now? Where are the gaps? What’s one thing you are doing just for you (this doesn’t have to have a financial implication)? Make sure to allocate time for something that rejuvenates your spirit.

Remember, you are not cheating; you are brilliant. Embrace the richness of your diverse income streams and the unique path you’ve carved for yourself.

I’d love to know how many jobs you have. Are you working alongside building your business? Do you have many interests and income streams? Come and chat to me in the comments below.

With love,

Laura x

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If you enjoyed reading this blog post, here’s a few more that you may find useful for your creative small business:

1. Goal setting for small business owners and multi-passionates

2. 8 ways I’m exploring selling in 2023

3. Turning dreams into a reality: overcoming self doubt and taking action