Even though we follow our budgets, we don't spend out of control, and we save every penny we can, it seems that sometimes we just can't get ahead. We need just a little more money to really make the difference. What can be done? Most of us used to be able to increase our hours at work, but most no longer have that option. If our budget is right then there probably isn't anything to cut out that would help.. It's time to "win in the margins" or to do a little extra. It is hard to create an additional income, right? I don't think so. Just a thought and a little effort and extra money will start to come. I prefer to use a hobby as an extra income (Never would I use a hobby for full time income, as it will destroy the hobby. but for a little income it will be fine)
I use recreational vehicles, from motorcycles to ATVs to camper trailers, to whatever else peaks my interest for the day. You may want to use your vinyl cutter, or sewing machine, or computer skills, or what ever your hobby is.
I often times receive requests from people I know, or people I don't to fix a problem they are having with a machine. I have done bikes, quads, cars, snow blowers, and just about anything with a motor. I charge a good fee for myself, but less than half of a typical shop. I have made thousands over the years, but it usually comes $20-$60 at a time. It does not interfere with my real job, and doesn't cause me stress (because it is a hobby) and it puts some extra in the pocket.
I also buy, then improve, and sell many motorized toys. This usually takes more time and effort but it pays out much more. I have also made many dollars in this extra area.
A friend of mine has started her own way to win in the margins. With a simple blog and a few pictures she has turned a hobby into extra cash! http://cuddlebugbynatalie.blogspot.com/ (hope thats ok Nat!)
Another friend has started selling vinyl stickers she cuts. It may not be making millions, but she can more than pay for her own expenses in doing her own hobby.
So the question is.. What can you do today?
It's time for all of us to be winning in the margins.
With a little extra effort we will be well on our way to a secure financial future!
Money Pools and the $1,000 Emergency fund
14 years ago
Thank you for your encouragement. I recently have made plans to take one of my hobbies and put it in a distributionary system. It may not be much but I enjoy doing it anyway. This way I can keep doing something I love. I have extra motivation to get better. So it really seems like instead of paying tuition to learn something I already love doing I am getting paid to do it.
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