Get a Side Gig to Support Your Artistic Career
A special treat for you: another guest post!
This one comes to you from Brittany Fisher and it’s something I’d wager many of you have been thinking about, if you’re not already actively engaged in it.
You can find more about Brittany and what she’s up to at her site: FINANCIALLY WELL
And now, on to the post…
Get a Side Gig to Support Your Artistic Career
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that people can’t have too much stability in life. Working a stable job provides a routine schedule and a regular check that keeps the proverbial motor running. However, the last few years have also served as a reminder that there is infinitely more to life than working a passionless nine-to-five. Where should anyone settle in between the two?
Embracing your creativity and pursuing your passion does not have to come at the expense of a steady income. Side gigs can make money to pay the bills while giving you the flexibility of having more time for your artistic pursuits. Ultimately, with smart planning and expert maneuvering, you need not ever settle between the two.
Making an Investment
Before earning a profit from your artistic endeavors, you will likely have to make investments in both time and capital to bring your dreams to fruition. To find enough time as well as earning money, take advantage of the flexibility a side gig offers.
Treat this opportunity like what it is — the chance to find your true business calling. The billionaire businessman Warren Buffet famously said, "Never invest in a business you cannot understand." This goes for your own business as much as any other. Take the time in the fledgling stage to decide how you want to advance your professional artistic career as well as your side hustle.
Making a Profit
With both your art and your side gig, marketing is key to success. Whether you're selling goods or a service, you need to find people to sell to. If you’re having trouble getting started, better branding and an increased social media presence can help you find more customers and clients. See if your artistic goods or services can be offered on a digital commerce platform so you can access a wider audience.
Keeping It Legal
As soon as you are making a profit from your side gig, it's important to file taxes correctly. A simple way to avoid paying fines in tax penalties is to apply for and obtain an Employer Identification Number from the IRS. It is important to note that, if you have any employees other than yourself, an EIN is required. Regardless of whether you are hiring anyone yet, an EIN serves several purposes:
The IRS uses it to identify and categorize your business.
It simplifies filing federal and state taxes, whether you file annually or quarterly.
It builds your credibility for small business loans and other contract accounts.
It protects you and your business against identity theft.
Balancing Time
Being able to live harmoniously while holding a side gig, meeting the everyday demands of life, and diligently working on your artistic career can be a challenge. Be sure to schedule in time for personal activities.
Consider making a schedule that includes regular time for family, friends, and exercise, as well as self-care. Start with small increments of blocked time so that you do not become overwhelmed by scheduled obligations and work demands.
The primary benefit of a side gig is that it increases your own time and impetus to create what you truly feel impassioned about. When you can make a stable income while maintaining the flexibility to pursue the artistic opportunities that excite you, you’ll be living the dream of all creative people.