Even full-time employees struggle to make enough money to live comfortably. Many people live paycheck to paycheck, and it can be hard to stay afloat.

However, a good solution for those who have the time is planning a side hustle. Whether it is painting portraits, data entry, or something else, side jobs can be surprisingly lucrative.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a side business but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re in luck. Here are a few ideas to give you the push you need to get started.

1 - Be a Small-Time Contractor

Are you a handyman? Consider becoming a contractor. A contracting business doesn’t have to deal with massive buildings. A quick remodel of a room in a home may be considered a part of the work of a contractor.

However, every state requires a contracting license to perform projects on even residential buildings. For example, a South Carolina contractor needs to have a license to perform any home construction job that costs over $200.

Check local and state regulations to find out what you need. Then, you’ll be on your way to a weekend business.

2 - At-Home Data Entry

Some companies have data entry jobs that you can do from home on your own computer. All you have to do is dedicate a certain amount of time per day to entering information and you can earn money pretty easily.

Some pay by amount of data, while others pay by the hour. Do a little research and see what you can find! It’s a great way to earn some extra cash.

3 - Make Art

If you’re a creative type, selling art might be the way to go. Whether you work in paintings or sketches, a lot of people will pay good money for custom art.

You can set your rates based on materials and time invested, and you can decide your own limits. No one knows your art better than you, and people will still be willing to pay for good works! Plus, you can still keep your day job.

4 - Sell Baked Goods

If art isn’t your style but you’re great in the kitchen, perhaps selling cookies and cakes will be your thing. If you have a good selection of different types of treats, flavors, and other options (like gluten free, dairy free, etc.), then you can drum up a lot of business.

After all, who doesn’t love a sweet treat?

5 - Be a Tutor

Where there are schools, there are kids who need help learning. That’s where tutors come in. Being a tutor is an excellent way to make money in your free time, or as a full-time business if you have enough interest. There will always be kids who need help and parents who are willing to pay, if you’re comfortable teaching, then you are the perfect solution.

6 – Try Freelance Writing

This option may not be appealing for many because it can be a difficult track. Freelance writers depend on others to hire them constantly, so there may not be a steady flow until you establish yourself. However, many freelancers make quite a bit of cash just by writing in their spare time. If you’re a writer at heart, it’s worth a try!

Conclusion

A small business doesn’t have to be your full-time job unless you want it to be. In many cases, a “small business” can simply be a side project that you use to make some extra income.

Whether you use your creative side to sell goods or provide a service like contracting or tutoring, any of these ideas will bring you side cash your way.