With the cost of living climbing faster than salaries, many South Africans, especially those just starting out early in their careers, are feeling the financial squeeze.
In today’s economy, a second income stream is gradually shifting from a ‘nice to have’ to a ‘must’.
As a result, a growing number of young adults are exploring side hustles as a practical way to boost their earnings and gain financial stability.
On how to choose a side hustle, Cheslyn Jacobs, Chief Commercial Officer at TymeBank, says, “Selecting a side hustle that aligns with your natural strengths and existing skills isn’t just practical, it’s financially smart. It allows you to start earning faster and reduces the upfront investment of time and money.”
By tapping into what you already love doing, you’re more likely to stay motivated, grow your side hustle organically, and build a long-term income stream that doesn’t feel like a chore.
Ultimately, a side hustle should complement your lifestyle, not create unnecessary stress, so it’s essential to choose something that feels natural to you.
With that in mind, here are some tips to help you maximise the potential of your side hustle and turn it into a meaningful source of income:
Tap into your natural strengths
Lean into your natural talents. Whether it’s tech, design, or cooking, aligning your side hustle with your strengths helps you offer high-quality work from day one, leading to faster income and a solid client base.
Make the most of your academic skills
If you’re academically inclined and enjoy helping others, tutoring in subjects like Maths or English through platforms like Teach Me 2 or even private WhatsApp groups can be profitable.
Explore content creation
Many creative youths are also finding success in content creation on platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, sharing everything from fashion tips to comedy skits and earning through brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, and ad revenue.
Freelance with design and digital art
For those with an eye for design, freelancing in graphic design or selling digital artwork through platforms like Instagram is an increasingly popular choice.
Turn words into income
If you’re strong in communication, whether it’s through writing or engaging online, you already have marketable skills that can be turned into income.
For example, you could offer freelance writing services to local businesses or manage social media accounts for small brands looking to grow their online presence. These side hustles have low barriers to entry and can offer income potential, especially as you build experience and a solid client base.
Resell preloved fashion
The second-hand fashion market is booming. Use platforms like Yaga, a buy and sell app for preloved fashion, to sell thrifted clothes and accessories. It’s sustainable, trendy, and profitable.
Turn hobbies into hustles
If you love cooking, photography, or fitness, monetising these passions can make your side hustle financially sustainable and enjoyable. For example, you could start a home baking business, sell meal prep plans, offer fitness coaching, or shoot portraits and events on weekends.
Teach or perform what you love
Musicians and gamers can teach lessons or livestream content. From piano lessons to game streaming on YouTube, you can turn your passion into profit.
Leverage digital freelancing
The digital world offers a wealth of opportunities for side hustles with low startup costs, flexible hours, and global reach. From freelance writing, graphic design, and social media management to virtual assistance and online consulting, the digital economy allows you to work from anywhere, even from your phone.
Create and sell digital products
Earn extra cash through affiliate marketing and selling digital products like eBooks or Canva templates, and even teaching courses via platforms like Skillshare through the platform’s website and mobile app.
The platform offers a wide range of online creative classes, with both free and premium content, and premium access requires a subscription fee.
“While side hustles require time and effort, they also offer the flexibility to earn on your terms, gain new skills, and open doors to future career opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for the future, or improve your financial outlook, starting a side hustle is a smart and proactive step towards greater financial freedom,” concludes Cheslyn.
Also see: How higher certificates can unlock real-world business wins
