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BE YOUR OWN BOSS BUSINESS TIPS

Be Your Own Boss: The Real Cost, True Benefits & How to Start (2026 Guide)

Being your own boss means trading employment security for total control over your time, income, and future. After 15 years of self-employment, the honest answer is this: it costs more than most people expect, rewards more than most people imagine, and is absolutely achievable — if you approach it with preparation rather than impulse.

This is the most comprehensive guide to self-employment Alan Spicer has produced — covering the real financial and emotional costs, the genuine compounding benefits, the UK legal and tax framework, multiple income stream strategies, mental health and burnout prevention, the tools you actually need, and a 7-step framework for making the leap safely.

Every section is based on 15 years of being self-employed, building a YouTube channel and consulting business from zero, and coaching 500+ clients through the same transition. This is not motivational content. This is the information you need before you make a decision that affects your entire working life.

📊 Self-Employment in the UK — 2026

  • 4.5 million people in the UK were self-employed in 2025 — a record high (QuickBooks UK)
  • 52% of workers considered starting a business in 2025
  • 41% said the number-one reason was loving the idea of being their own boss
  • 1 in 4 self-employed people have zero financial safety net in place (WeCovr, 2026)
  • 13.1% of the UK workforce is currently self-employed (ONS, Q2 2024)
  • 44% of freelancers globally maintain two or more income streams

1. What Does It Actually Mean to Be Your Own Boss?

Being your own boss means you are responsible for finding your own work, setting your own prices, managing your own finances, and delivering results without anyone holding your hand. There is no HR department, no manager to escalate to, no company policy to hide behind. You are the sales team, the finance department, the marketing manager, and the product — simultaneously.

In the UK, self-employment typically takes one of three structures:

Structure Best For Liability Tax Setup Time
Sole Trader Freelancers, consultants, service providers Personal — you are the business Income Tax + Class 4 NI via Self Assessment Under 20 minutes online (free)
Limited Company Higher earners (£40k+), those wanting liability protection Limited — company is a separate legal entity Corporation Tax on profits + Income Tax on salary/dividends 1–3 days, £12 registration fee
Partnership Two or more people going into business together Personal (standard) or Limited (LLP) Each partner pays own Income Tax on share of profits Register each partner separately with HMRC

The vast majority of people starting out register as a sole trader — it’s free, takes under 20 minutes, and requires no legal complexity. The question of whether to convert to a limited company typically arises once profits consistently exceed £40,000–£50,000 per year, at which point the tax advantages become meaningful enough to justify the additional administration.

💡 Alan’s Structure After 15 Years

I started as a sole trader and converted to a limited company once my income made it tax-efficient to do so. There is no rush to complicate your structure on day one. Get the money coming in first. Sort the structure when the numbers demand it.

What self-employment is not: it is not a lifestyle. It is not passive income while you sit on a beach. In the early years especially, it is more work than employment — you are building something, which requires sustained, deliberate effort. The freedom comes once the systems, reputation, and recurring income are in place. That takes time. Anyone selling you the overnight version is lying.

2. The Real Cost of Being Your Own Boss

Most “be your own boss” content sells the dream. This section does not. These are the real costs — financial, practical, and emotional — that nobody photographs for Instagram.

The Financial Costs — What You Actually Give Up

What You Lose as an Employee What You Now Fund Yourself Approximate Annual Cost
Employer pension contributions (typically 3–5%) Your own pension provision £1,500–£5,000+
Statutory Sick Pay (up to 28 weeks at ~£116/week) Income protection insurance or savings buffer £300–£1,500/yr for insurance
28 days statutory holiday pay Days not working = days not earning (roughly 11% of income) Build into day rate pricing
Tax deducted automatically via PAYE Self Assessment — you save and pay it yourself Set aside 25–35% of every payment
Employer NI contributions (~13.8%) You pay employee NI only (Class 4: 6% on profits) Lower than employment, but you feel it
Equipment, software, office (employer-provided) Laptop, software, subscriptions, workspace £500–£4,000 to set up properly
Guaranteed monthly salary (certain income) Variable income — feast-and-famine cycles Needs 3–6 month buffer in savings
Employer-subsidised benefits (health, gym, etc.) Everything you want, you pay for personally Varies significantly by lifestyle

⚠️ The Tax Shock Is Real — Don’t Let It Hit You

The single most common crisis for newly self-employed people is an unexpected tax bill in January. Set aside 25–35% of every payment the moment it hits your account into a separate savings pot. Never touch it. This is not your money. This is HMRC’s money that you’re holding.

The Hidden Ongoing Financial Costs

Beyond the obvious items above, self-employed people face a set of ongoing operational costs that erode margins — especially in the first year when income is inconsistent. These are the costs that business plans often underestimate:

  • Accounting software: FreeAgent, Xero, or QuickBooks typically cost £10–£30/month. From April 2026, Making Tax Digital (MTD) requires sole traders earning over £50,000 to use HMRC-compatible digital record-keeping — software is no longer optional at that level.
  • Professional indemnity insurance: Particularly important for consultants, advisors, and anyone giving professional advice. Typically £200–£600/year depending on turnover and profession.
  • Public liability insurance: Essential if you work in client premises or in public. Typically £100–£400/year.
  • Accountant fees: A good accountant saves you far more than they cost, but expect £500–£2,000/year for a competent sole trader accountant.
  • Marketing costs: Website hosting (£5–£30/month), domain (£10–£15/year), email marketing tools, and potentially paid advertising.
  • Continuing education: You are responsible for keeping your skills current. Courses, conferences, subscriptions. Budget at least £200–£500/year.
  • Bad debt provision: Clients who don’t pay is a reality of self-employment. Build a small bad debt provision into your annual budget — typically 2–5% of projected revenue.

The Emotional and Psychological Costs

These are the costs nobody puts in the highlight reel. After 15 years, here is Alan Spicer’s honest accounting of the psychological overhead of self-employment — and importantly, how to manage each one:

😶

Loneliness

Working alone is genuinely isolating, especially in the early years. The office social structure — the banter, the shared problems, the incidental human contact — disappears. Building a community of fellow freelancers, joining online groups, and creating content that generates real audience relationships are the antidotes.

🤯

Decision Fatigue

Every single decision — pricing, clients, tools, direction — falls entirely on you. There is no manager to escalate to, no committee to share the blame. Decision fatigue is real. Systematise whatever you can, and accept that some decisions will be wrong.

🪞

Imposter Syndrome

Without the external validation of a job title and employer reputation, self-doubt hits harder and more frequently than most content admits. It does not go away after years of success. The practice is to act despite it, not to wait until it goes away.

📵

No Off Switch

When your business and your income are the same thing, it is extraordinarily difficult to mentally clock off. This is one of the most underestimated long-term costs of self-employment. Boundaries require deliberate construction — they do not appear naturally.

📈📉

Feast and Famine

Outstanding months followed by quiet months — and the anxiety of not knowing which is next. Managing the psychological impact of income variability is one of the highest-skill aspects of self-employment. The financial buffer (3–6 months expenses) is the primary tool.

🎯

Total Accountability

Nobody checks on you. Nobody chases you. If you have a bad week, a bad month, nobody rescues you. The self-discipline required to show up consistently without external structure is a real skill that most people underestimate until they try to build it.

“The real cost of being your own boss isn’t money. It’s the constant internal accountability. No one is checking on you. No one is chasing you. You either build the self-discipline to show up, or the dream quietly dissolves. That discipline is worth every penny the freedom costs.”

— Alan Spicer — YouTube Certified Expert, 15 years self-employed

3. The Real Benefits Nobody Talks About

The clichés — “freedom”, “be your own boss”, “work from anywhere” — are all true, but they’re surface level. The deeper compounding benefits of long-term self-employment are significantly more powerful than the Instagram version suggests:

Your Income Has No Ceiling

Employment caps your earnings at whatever someone else decides to pay you. Self-employment removes that ceiling entirely. Every system you build, every piece of content that generates a lead, every client who refers someone new — all of these compound directly into your income with no percentage going to an employer. The gap between a £35,000 employed salary and what a skilled self-employed person can build over 5–10 years is extraordinary.

You Own Your Time

School runs, doctors’ appointments, extended lunch breaks, working from 6am and finishing at 2pm — you make those calls. No annual leave requests. No permission. This is the benefit that compounds most powerfully when you have children, caring responsibilities, or health considerations. The freedom to shape your working day around your actual life is not a small thing. It is genuinely one of the most valuable assets available to any working person.

You Build Something That Compounds Over Time

A salary stops the moment you stop working. A business — with content assets, a reputation, recurring clients, affiliate income, and systems — keeps generating income after you step back. This is the long game that makes self-employment genuinely powerful as a wealth-building strategy. The YouTube videos Alan Spicer published five years ago still generate consultancy enquiries today. That is compounding. Employment never offers this.

Accelerated Personal and Professional Development

Running your own business forces you to learn sales, marketing, finance, systems, communication, and client management simultaneously. The personal development curve in self-employment is steeper than almost any employed career — not because it is comfortable, but because the feedback loops are faster and more consequential. You grow faster because you have to.

Genuine Job Security Through Diversification

Employment provides the illusion of security. A single employer can make you redundant at any point. Self-employment with a diversified client base — where no single client accounts for more than 30% of revenue — and multiple income streams provides a form of real security that employment rarely does. You cannot be made redundant from your own business. You can lose a client, but you cannot lose all of them simultaneously if you have built your relationships properly.

You Choose Who You Work With

One of the most underrated freedoms in self-employment: the ability to end relationships with clients who drain your energy, undervalue your work, or operate in ways that conflict with your values. In employment, you have no choice who you work for. Self-employment gives that power back. With experience, you get increasingly selective — and the quality of your working life improves enormously as a result.

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This section covers the practical legal and tax obligations for self-employed people in the UK as of 2026. This is not legal or financial advice — always consult a qualified accountant for your specific circumstances — but this is the core framework every new sole trader needs to understand before they start trading.

How to Register as a Sole Trader — Step by Step

Registering as self-employed in the UK is free and takes under 20 minutes online. You must register with HMRC if your self-employed income exceeds £1,000 in any tax year — including side hustle income alongside employment.

  1. Go to GOV.UK and navigate to the Self Assessment registration service (search “register sole trader HMRC”).
  2. Create or log in to your Government Gateway account (your National Insurance number and personal details required).
  3. Select “Self-employed (sole trader)” as your reason for registering for Self Assessment.
  4. Complete the registration form — your personal details, business name (can be your own name), business address, and when you started trading.
  5. Submit — HMRC confirms by post within 10 working days with your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).
  6. Register by 5 October in your second tax year of trading (e.g. if you started trading in August 2025, you must register by 5 October 2026).

📌 Can I Trade Before My UTR Arrives?

Yes — you can start trading and earning money immediately. You just cannot file your tax return until you have your UTR. Register early and trade freely while you wait.

UK Self-Employment Tax — 2025/26 Rates

Income Band Income Tax Rate Class 4 NI Rate What This Means
Up to £12,570 (Personal Allowance) 0% 0% Tax-free income — everyone gets this
£12,571 – £50,270 20% (Basic Rate) 6% Most sole traders fall in this band
£50,271 – £125,140 40% (Higher Rate) 2% NI drops but Income Tax doubles
Above £125,140 45% (Additional Rate) 2% Personal allowance tapers to zero above £100k

Practical rule: Set aside 25–35% of your gross income for tax throughout the year. Basic rate taxpayers (profits £12,571–£50,270) typically need 25–28%. Higher rate taxpayers (£50,271–£125,140) should set aside 30–35%.

Important from April 2025: Class 2 National Insurance has been abolished for most sole traders. If your profits exceed £6,845, your State Pension record is automatically credited — no payment required. This saves approximately £182/year compared to previous years.

Key Tax Deadlines — Never Miss These

Deadline What It Is Penalty for Missing
5 October (each year) Register for Self Assessment if you became self-employed in the previous tax year Possible HMRC penalty
31 October (paper) Paper Self Assessment tax return deadline for previous tax year £100 immediate fine, rising further
31 January (online) Online Self Assessment + payment of all tax owed for previous year £100 fine + interest on unpaid tax
31 July Second ‘payment on account’ (advance payment towards current year’s bill, if applicable) Interest charged on late payment

What Expenses Can You Claim?

As a sole trader you can deduct expenses that are wholly and exclusively for business purposes from your taxable profit. Claiming all legitimate expenses reduces your tax bill — many new self-employed people leave significant money on the table by under-claiming.

  • Home office costs: HMRC’s simplified flat rate is £6/week (£312/year) with no receipts needed, or claim the actual proportion of household bills (rent, utilities, broadband, council tax) based on space and hours used.
  • Equipment and technology: Laptop, camera, microphone, monitors, phone (business proportion).
  • Software and subscriptions: Design tools, accounting software, project management, hosting, domain.
  • Travel: Business mileage at HMRC’s approved rates (45p/mile up to 10,000 miles, 25p/mile after), public transport, accommodation for business trips.
  • Professional fees: Accountant, solicitor, professional memberships and subscriptions.
  • Marketing: Website costs, paid advertising, printed materials, promotional costs.
  • Training and development: Courses, books, conferences relevant to your work.
  • Business insurance: Professional indemnity, public liability, relevant cover.
  • Pension contributions: Personal pension contributions receive tax relief at your marginal rate — one of the most efficient ways to reduce a self-employment tax bill.

🔔 Making Tax Digital — Important from April 2026

From April 2026, sole traders and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000 must keep digital records and submit quarterly updates to HMRC rather than a single annual return. This applies from April 2027 for incomes over £30,000. Start using compatible accounting software (FreeAgent, Xero, QuickBooks) now to prepare. HMRC-approved options are listed at gov.uk.

Do You Need to Register for VAT?

You must register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any 12-month period. Below this threshold it’s optional. For most sole traders starting out, VAT registration adds administrative complexity that outweighs the benefits until you approach that threshold or unless your clients are primarily VAT-registered businesses (in which case voluntary registration can make sense as you can reclaim VAT on your expenses). Speak to an accountant before registering voluntarily.

5. Building Multiple Income Streams as Your Own Boss

One of the most important mindset shifts for long-term self-employed success is understanding that relying on a single income source is the self-employment equivalent of relying on a single employer. It replaces one fragility with another. The self-employed people who build genuine financial resilience do it by layering multiple streams — starting with one, adding others over time as systems allow.

Income Stream Type Examples Time to First £ Scalability Passive Potential
Service / Consultancy Freelance, coaching, consulting, agency work Days to weeks Capped by time Low
Content (YouTube/Blog) AdSense, brand deals, sponsorships 3–12 months High Medium — grows over time
Affiliate Marketing Amazon Associates, SaaS affiliate programmes 1–3 months High High — content works 24/7
Digital Products Courses, ebooks, templates, presets Weeks (if audience exists) Very high High
Recurring Subscriptions Membership communities, monthly retainers 1–3 months Medium Medium
Licensing / Royalties Music, photography, writing, software Months to years High once established High
Physical Products Amazon FBA, print-on-demand, merchandise 1–6 months Medium to high Medium

Alan Spicer’s own income structure demonstrates this layering in practice: consulting services (primary income, high margin, time-bound), YouTube AdSense (growing passive stream from existing content), affiliate marketing (Amazon Associates, vidIQ, TubeBuddy — content-driven), and digital products and brand partnerships (episodic but high-margin). Each stream was added one at a time, only once the previous one was producing consistent income.

The strategy for building affiliate income specifically — including Amazon Associates — is covered in depth in the dedicated post: Amazon Affiliate Marketing for Beginners: The Strategy That Pays Every Month →

One-Off vs. Recurring Income — Why Recurring Always Wins

Income Type Example Predictability Compounding Mental Load
One-off project fees Web design project, one-time consultancy Zero — you start over each month None High — constant lead generation required
Recurring retainer Monthly channel management, ongoing consulting High — income is pre-committed Grows month-on-month Lower — less selling required
Recurring affiliate SaaS tools, subscription products Medium — dependent on active subscribers Strong over time Very low once content is published
Content AdSense YouTube monetisation, blog display ads Medium — grows with views Strong — old content keeps earning Very low once content is live

The progression for most successful self-employed people looks like this: one-off projects → monthly retainers → affiliate and content income → digital products. Moving up this ladder over time is what creates genuine financial resilience and — eventually — the freedom from constant client acquisition that most people are dreaming of when they decide to be their own boss.

📺 Be Your Own Boss Video Series

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6. The Tools, Tech & Setup You Actually Need

New self-employed people frequently over-invest in tools before they have clients, and under-invest in the tools that would actually generate income. Here is an honest breakdown of what you need on day one versus what can wait.

Day One Essentials (Under £100 Total)

Tool Purpose Cost Recommended Option
Professional domain email Stop using Gmail immediately — clients judge you on this ~£10/year Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 with your domain
Business bank account Separate personal and business finances from day one Free to £10/month Monzo Business, Starling Bank, or Tide (all free tiers)
Simple website Professional presence, Google-indexable, client trust £5–£20/month hosting Hosting deals on Amazon UK — or Squarespace/WordPress
Invoice template Get paid professionally from the first client Free Wave (free), or your accountant’s platform
HMRC registration Legal requirement once earning over £1,000 Free gov.uk/set-up-self-employed

Once You Have Consistent Income (Month 2–3)

Tool Purpose Cost Notes
Accounting software Track income/expenses, MTD-ready from April 2026 £10–£30/month FreeAgent, Xero, or QuickBooks — all HMRC-compatible
Professional indemnity insurance Protects against client claims for professional errors £200–£600/year Simply Business or Hiscox for comparison
Password manager Secure client and business account access Free to £3/month Bitwarden (free), 1Password (paid)
Project management tool Track client work and deadlines professionally Free to £10/month Notion, Trello, or Asana — all have generous free tiers
Scheduling tool Remove back-and-forth when booking client calls Free to £10/month Calendly (free tier), TidyCal (one-off fee)

Content Creation Setup (If YouTube or Podcasting)

If your self-employment strategy includes YouTube or podcasting — which it absolutely should as a long-term lead generation channel — here is a practical starter kit that does not require thousands of pounds:

Kit Item Why It Matters Budget Option Amazon Link
USB microphone Audio quality matters more than video quality £40–£80 USB microphones on Amazon UK
Ring light or softbox Even lighting removes the ‘amateur’ impression immediately £25–£60 Ring lights on Amazon UK
Webcam or existing smartphone Most modern phones film better than entry-level cameras £0 (phone) – £80 (webcam) 4K webcams on Amazon UK
Tripod or phone mount Stable footage is non-negotiable £15–£35 Phone tripod mounts on Amazon UK
Acoustic treatment Reduce echo — foam panels or a duvet behind the camera £20–£50 Acoustic foam panels on Amazon UK

See the full YouTube equipment guide at alanspicer.com/creator-gear/ → and the podcast setup guide at How to Start a Podcast (Watch This First) →

7. Mindset, Isolation & Avoiding Burnout

The skills that make you good at your craft are not the skills that make you sustainable as a self-employed person. Technical competence is table stakes. The psychological layer — managing isolation, inconsistent income, self-doubt, and the absence of external structure — is what separates people who build something lasting from those who burn out and return to employment within 18 months.

The North Star Method — Goals That Survive Bad Weeks

Motivation is unreliable. Discipline is a skill. But neither is as powerful as having a clear, emotionally connected north star goal — a specific, meaningful destination that makes the bad days worth it. Not “I want to earn more money” but “I want to build an income that lets me be present for school drop-offs without asking permission.” Specificity creates resilience. Vague goals collapse under pressure.

Alan Spicer explores this in depth in the video and post on goal-setting: How to Set Goals You Actually Achieve (Including With ADHD) →

Building Structure When There Is No External Structure

The most consistently successful self-employed people treat their work like a job, even on the days they don’t feel like it. Practical tools for building internal structure:

  • Fixed working hours that you protect — tell clients, protect them even when no one is checking.
  • A weekly review — 30 minutes every Friday to record what was done, what revenue came in, and what the next week’s priority is.
  • A daily start ritual — a simple trigger that tells your brain work has started (a specific playlist, a coffee, a walk).
  • Income tracking — a simple spreadsheet tracking monthly income in real time. Watching it grow is motivating. Watching a quiet month early helps you act before it becomes a crisis.
  • Public commitments — telling your audience what you’re working on creates social accountability that partially replaces the employer accountability structure.

Combating Isolation

Loneliness is the most underreported mental health challenge of self-employment. The practical antidotes are not romantic — they are deliberate and repeated:

  • Join or build a community of fellow self-employed people in your niche — online groups, Discord servers, local meetups.
  • Create content publicly — comments, replies, and subscriber relationships provide a form of social contact that partially replaces the office.
  • Work from a coffee shop, library, or coworking space at least one day per week.
  • Schedule regular calls with peers — not just client calls, but people at the same career stage as you who understand the pressure.
  • Protect social time outside of work with the same deliberateness you give client meetings.

Recognising and Preventing Burnout

Self-employed burnout is distinct from employed burnout — it typically comes not from overwork alone but from the combination of overwork, financial stress, and social isolation occurring simultaneously. The warning signs: growing resentment toward work you previously loved, difficulty concentrating, decision paralysis, withdrawal from clients or audience, and a persistent sense that nothing is moving.

Prevention is simpler than recovery: protect annual leave deliberately (the irony is that self-employed people often take less holiday than employees despite having theoretically unlimited freedom), build the financial buffer that removes income anxiety, and cultivate the community that removes isolation. These three things — time off, financial buffer, community — prevent approximately 80% of the burnout Alan Spicer has observed in his clients over 15 years.

8. How to Be Your Own Boss in 2026: The 7-Step Framework

This is the framework Alan Spicer used to build 15+ years of self-employed income, and the same framework he has walked 500+ clients through. It is deliberately methodical. Speed is for people who want to fail fast and return to employment. Patience is for people who want to build something lasting.

Step 1

Identify Your Sellable Skill

Audit what you can do that solves a specific problem for a specific person. This is your starting product. Forget ‘I’m good at marketing’ — think ‘I help e-commerce brands write product descriptions that convert browser traffic into sales.’ The more specific your offer, the easier your first client conversation becomes. You do not need a revolutionary idea. You need a skill that already exists in you, packaged as a solution to a problem someone is already paying to solve. Read: Your First Business Starts With This Problem → →

Step 2

Validate Income Before You Quit Anything

This is the rule that separates sustainable self-employment from romantic failure. Get your first paying client — even at a deliberately low introductory price — before you resign. One client is proof of market demand. Three clients is a pattern. Five clients is a business. Never resign from employment until you have demonstrated, repeated proof of income from your self-employed activity. The temptation to jump first and figure it out later is real. Resist it. Read: How to Get Your First Client Starting From Zero → →

Step 3

Register With HMRC and Sort Your Finances

Register as a sole trader at gov.uk — free, under 20 minutes. Open a dedicated business bank account immediately (Starling, Monzo Business, or Tide all offer free accounts). Set aside 25–35% of every payment for tax the moment it arrives, into a separate savings account. Start tracking income and expenses from day one. A dedicated book: self-employed bookkeeping guides on Amazon UK can set you up with the right habits from the start.

Step 4

Build Your Professional Presence

Get a professional domain email (not Gmail — clients notice and judge accordingly). Build a simple, clear, one-page website explaining what you do, who you help, and how to contact you. This is not about perfection — a clean, fast website built in a weekend is infinitely better than a perfect website that doesn’t exist yet. Register your business on Google Business Profile if you have a local element to your service. LinkedIn profile fully completed with your self-employed positioning.

Step 5

Use Content to Generate Inbound Leads

The highest-leverage activity for any self-employed person in 2026 is content. Answer the most common questions in your niche, publicly, on YouTube or LinkedIn or a blog. Every piece of content is a sales asset working for free, 24 hours a day. Alan Spicer built his entire consultancy primarily through YouTube content — people find the videos, watch, trust, and book a call. This flywheel compounds powerfully over time and reduces your dependence on cold outreach and referrals. Read: How to Grow a YouTube Channel Fast → →

Step 6

Build Multiple Income Streams Deliberately

Once your service income is consistent, start adding a second stream — typically affiliate marketing (low effort, high leverage) or a digital product (high upfront effort, high long-term return). The goal is that no single client or income source represents more than 30–40% of your total revenue. This is the structural diversification that turns self-employment from a single-point-of-failure into genuine financial resilience. Read: The Side Hustle Blueprint That Actually Works → →

Step 7

Build Your Runway — Then Resign

The golden rule for leaving employment safely: only resign when your self-employed income consistently covers at least 50% of your living costs, AND you hold 3–6 months of living expenses in savings as a buffer. This runway does not make the risk disappear — it gives you the mental space and financial room to build properly rather than panicking into discounting, bad clients, or desperate decisions in lean months. The runway is not a luxury. It is the foundation.

9. Are You Ready? The Honest Self-Employment Readiness Checklist

Before romanticising the leap, answer each of these honestly. This is not a test to pass or fail — it’s a map of what needs to be true before the risk is sensible rather than reckless.

Question Ready ✅ Not Yet ⚠️ What to Do if Not Ready
Do you have a specific, sellable skill that solves a real problem? Yes — clearly defined offer Vague idea, no defined service Narrow your niche. Read: Your First Business Starts With This Problem
Have you already earned money from this skill, even informally? Yes — at least once Not yet Offer your service free or at cost to 1–2 people to validate and build a case study
Do you have 3 months of living expenses in savings? Yes Less than 1 month Build the buffer before you resign. This is non-negotiable.
Have you registered or are you ready to register with HMRC? Yes / know the process Unaware of the process Read Section 4 of this guide. Takes 20 minutes, is free.
Can you work consistently without external accountability or deadlines? Generally yes Need external structure to function Build habits and systems first. Read: How to Set Goals You Actually Achieve
Do you have or are you willing to build an online professional presence? Yes / actively building No website, no LinkedIn, reluctant to create content A professional domain email and one-page site takes a weekend. Do this first.
Do you have at least one potential client in your network? Yes — 1+ people who might hire you No network, no leads Reach out to former colleagues, managers, or contacts this week before anything else
Are you comfortable with irregular monthly income? Can manage it with a buffer Need guaranteed salary to function Build the savings buffer and a secondary income stream before resigning
Have you told your family or dependants about the plan? Yes — they understand and support Not discussed This conversation needs to happen before you start. Financial stress affects households, not individuals.
Do you have a simple plan for the first 90 days? Yes — first 3 months mapped out No plan Map out: first client target, registration, website, content plan, income milestone.

Scoring 7–10 green: you are ready. Start now. Scoring 4–6 green: set a 90-day target to close the gaps. Scoring under 4 green: use this guide as a 6-month preparation roadmap rather than a launch plan. The goal is not to move fast — it is to move once, in the right direction, with enough preparation that you do not have to retreat.

10. The Full Be Your Own Boss Series

Every post in this series is based on a dedicated YouTube video and expanded with the full detail, stats, tools, and action steps that video format cannot hold. Work through them in build order, or jump directly to whatever your current need is:

# Post & Link YouTube Video Best For Primary Keyword
1 The Real Cost of Being Your Own Boss ← You are here The Real Cost of Being Your Own Boss After 15 Years Everyone — start here be your own boss
2 The Side Hustle Blueprint That Actually Works The Side Hustle Blueprint That Actually Works Still employed, building on the side how to start a side hustle
3 How to Get Your First Client Starting From Zero Starting From ZERO? Here’s How I Got My First Client No clients yet how to get your first client
4 Your First Business Starts With This Problem Your First Business Starts With This Problem Building a service business from scratch how to start your first business
5 The Amazon Strategy That Pays Every Month This Amazon Strategy Pays Me Every Month Building passive/affiliate income amazon affiliate marketing for beginners
6 Jack of All Trades vs Master of One Don’t Be The Jack Of All Trades, Be The Master Of One Struggling to niche down or specialise jack of all trades master of one
7 How to Set Goals You Actually Achieve I Wasted My 20s Without This One Thing Struggling with consistency or ADHD how to set goals and achieve them
8 Starting Your Own Podcast (Watch This First) Starting Your Own Podcast? (WATCH THIS FIRST) Using a podcast as a business channel how to start a podcast
9 The YouTube Business Puzzle Piece Everyone Gets Wrong The YouTube Business Puzzle Piece Everyone Gets Wrong Using YouTube as a business growth tool how to use youtube for business

11. Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What does it really cost to be your own boss? +
The real cost goes beyond money — it includes lost sick pay, holiday pay, and employer pension contributions, plus the emotional weight of total personal accountability. Financially, set aside 25–35% of all earnings for tax, budget for insurance and accounting software, and maintain a 3–6 month cash buffer. The emotional costs — isolation, imposter syndrome, decision fatigue, and the feast-and-famine income cycle — are equally real but entirely manageable with the right systems. After 15 years, Alan Spicer describes the cost as real and absolutely worth it.
❓ How do I become my own boss with no money? +
Start with a skill you already possess and sell it as a service — no product, no inventory, zero upfront capital required. Use free platforms (LinkedIn, YouTube, social media) to build visibility. Your first client almost always comes from your existing personal or professional network. Alan Spicer started his consultancy from exactly this position — a skill, a network, and free content on YouTube.
❓ Is being self-employed worth it in the UK in 2026? +
For the right person with the right preparation, absolutely. A record 4.5 million people chose self-employment in 2025. The keys are: validate your income before you quit; build a 3-month financial buffer; separate business and personal finances from day one; and never rely on a single client for more than 40–50% of your revenue. The risk is real but manageable. The upside — income with no ceiling, time autonomy, and compounding assets — is not available in employment.
❓ How do I register as self-employed in the UK? +
Register as a sole trader with HMRC online via gov.uk/set-up-self-employed — it’s free and takes under 20 minutes. You’ll need your National Insurance number and personal details. HMRC will send your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post within 10 working days. You must register by 5 October in your second year of trading if your self-employed income exceeds £1,000 in any tax year.
❓ How much tax do I pay when self-employed in the UK? +
You pay Income Tax on profits above the £12,570 personal allowance: 20% on profits up to £50,270, 40% on profits up to £125,140, 45% above that. You also pay Class 4 National Insurance at 6% on profits between £12,570 and £50,270. As a practical rule, set aside 25–35% of gross income for tax. Note: Class 2 NI was abolished from April 2025 — your State Pension is credited automatically once profits exceed £6,845.
❓ Can I be employed and self-employed at the same time? +
Yes — and this is the recommended approach when starting out. You can be simultaneously employed (paying tax through PAYE) and self-employed (declaring additional income through Self Assessment). Your employer does not need to know unless your contract of employment restricts outside work. This is the safest way to build self-employment income before resigning.
❓ How long does it take to become your own boss? +
You can technically register and start trading today. Replacing a full-time salary safely typically takes 6–18 months of consistent side-hustle building alongside employment. The timeline shortens considerably if you have a strong existing professional network, a clearly defined offer, and are publishing content consistently to generate inbound leads.
❓ What are the biggest mistakes people make going self-employed? +
The five most common: 1) quitting employment before validating income; 2) pricing too low out of fear rather than market research; 3) trying to serve everyone instead of niching down to a specific audience; 4) ignoring tax and not setting aside 25–35% of income from day one; 5) not building any online presence or content strategy to generate inbound leads and credibility.
❓ What is the best business to start as your own boss? +
The best business is built around a skill you already have, serving a market you already understand. Service businesses (consulting, freelancing, coaching, trades, creative services) have the lowest startup cost and fastest path to first income. Start with services, add digital products and passive income streams later once you have consistent cash flow and proven client demand.
❓ Do I need a website to be my own boss? +
Not on day one — but within 90 days, yes. A professional domain email (not Gmail — clients notice) costs under £10/year and immediately changes how you are perceived. A simple website costs £5–£20/month to host and can be built in a weekend. These two things together signal professionalism and allow Google to index you, creating the foundation for long-term organic lead generation.
❓ How do I use YouTube to grow my self-employed business? +
YouTube is the highest-leverage content platform for self-employed people in 2026 because it creates permanent, searchable, compounding assets that generate leads and build credibility around the clock. Alan Spicer has built his entire consulting business primarily through YouTube content. Start by answering the five most common questions people in your niche ask — these become your first five videos. See the full strategy: How to Grow a YouTube Channel Fast →

1-to-1 Coaching & Consulting

Ready to Build Your Own Boss Life? Book a Free Call.

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Sources and further reading: Office for National Statistics (ONS) Labour Market Data Q4 2025 · House of Commons Library Employment Briefing SN02796 (March 2026) · QuickBooks UK Entrepreneurship Report 2025 · WeCovr UK Self-Employed Income Protection Gap Report 2026 · HMRC Self Assessment registration guidance (gov.uk) · IFS: Understanding Changes in Self-Employment in the UK · Simply Business self-employed registration guide (2026) · ByteStart 15 steps to become self-employed (2026) · Freelance Economy Statistics 2026, SQ Magazine. All statistics cited reflect publicly available data at time of publication. This article does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice — consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

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HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE LISTS YOUTUBE

Maximizing Your Time: How to Balance a 9-5 Job and a Profitable Side Hustle

Maximizing Your Time: How to Balance a 9-5 Job and a Profitable Side Hustle

Side hustles can be a great way to make some extra money outside of your 9-5 job.

With the rise of the gig economy, there are now more opportunities than ever to earn money on the side.

Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or just have a little extra spending money, a side hustle can help you reach your financial goals.

The list of side hustles below includes a variety of options that can be done even if you have a full-time job. From online tutoring and teaching to freelance writing and editing, there are many ways to use your skills and expertise to earn extra money.

One of the biggest advantages of side hustles is that they can often be done remotely and on your own schedule. This allows you to fit them in around your full-time job and other commitments.

For example, if you’re a graphic designer, you can take on freelance projects in the evenings or on weekends. If you’re a virtual assistant, you can work remotely and provide administrative or technical support to businesses or individuals.

Another advantage of side hustles is that they can be a great way to explore new interests and passions. For example, if you love animals, pet-sitting or dog-walking can be a great side hustle. If you enjoy working with kids, babysitting can be a great option. If you’re handy and enjoy home improvement tasks, handyman services can be a great way to earn extra money.

  1. Online Tutoring/Teaching

Leverage your knowledge in a specific subject area to educate and mentor students through online tutoring or teaching. By using platforms such as Zoom or Skype, you can offer your services remotely and tailor your schedule to fit your primary job.

  1. Freelance Writing or Video Editing

Offer your writing or video editing skills to create engaging articles, blog posts, or visual content for websites, businesses, and publications. With the option to work remotely and set your own hours, you can easily juggle freelance projects alongside your day job.

  1. Graphic Design Services

Utilize your design expertise to craft eye-catching graphics, logos, and other visual elements for businesses or individuals. Offering your services remotely, you can work on design projects at your convenience without disrupting your regular work hours.

  1. Virtual Assistance

Provide administrative or technical support to businesses or individuals from the comfort of your home. As a virtual assistant, you can manage tasks like data entry, scheduling appointments, and handling emails, making it a flexible side hustle to complement your 9-to-5 job.

  1. Pet-sitting or Dog-walking

For animal lovers, caring for pets while their owners are away or busy can be a fulfilling and enjoyable side gig. Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services in your local area to build a clientele that fits your schedule.

  1. Babysitting Services

If you enjoy working with children, consider offering babysitting services to help parents who need a break or are occupied with work. With flexible hours, you can provide childcare on evenings or weekends without interfering with your day job.

  1. House Cleaning Services

Offer your skills in tidying and cleaning to help individuals who are unable to maintain their homes themselves or simply lack the time. By setting your own hours, you can accommodate house cleaning tasks around your primary job.

  1. Personal Shopping and Errand Running

Assist those who are unable to run errands or shop for themselves, or who simply need a helping hand due to their busy schedules. By being efficient and reliable, you can effectively manage your time while fulfilling the needs of your clients.

  1. Photography Services

Put your photography skills to use by capturing precious moments for events, families, or businesses. With the flexibility to choose your projects and schedule, photography can be a lucrative and enjoyable side hustle.

  1. Handyman Services

Offer your expertise in minor repairs and home improvement tasks to help people who require assistance with various household projects. By setting your own hours and selecting the jobs you take on, you can easily balance handyman services with your day job.

Note: These are just a few examples of potential side hustles, but there are many more options available depending on your skills and interests. It’s also important to note that side hustles may require some startup costs, and it’s always a good idea to research and plan before starting a new venture.

Does YouTube Kids have ads? 1

Stats About Side Hustles

  1. Side hustle prevalence:
  • 45% of working Americans reported having a side hustle in 2021.
  • The percentage of millennials with a side hustle was 50%, compared to 40% for Gen X and 28% for Baby Boomers.
  1. Income generated by side hustles:
  • On average, a side hustler earns an extra $1,122 per month.
  • 15% of side hustlers earn over $2,000 per month from their side hustle.
  1. Most popular side hustle categories:
  • Selling items online (e.g., eBay, Etsy, Amazon): 26%
  • Freelancing (e.g., writing, graphic design, programming): 20%
  • Rideshare driving (e.g., Uber, Lyft): 12%
  • Food delivery (e.g., DoorDash, Grubhub): 10%
  • Tutoring or teaching (e.g., VIPKid, Teachable): 8%
  1. Reasons for starting a side hustle:
  • Extra income: 65%
  • Explore a passion: 45%
  • Build new skills: 35%
  • Networking opportunities: 25%
  • As a potential full-time career: 20%
  1. Time spent on side hustles per week:
  • 1-5 hours: 30%
  • 6-10 hours: 40%
  • 11-15 hours: 20%
  • 16-20 hours: 7%
  • 21+ hours: 3%

FAQ’s About Side Hustles

  1. What is a side hustle?
  1. What are some examples of side hustles?
  • Examples of side hustles include freelancing, pet-sitting, dog-walking, tutoring, writing or editing, graphic design, virtual assistant, photography, personal shopping and errand running, and handyman services.
  1. Can I do a side hustle if I have a full-time job?
  • Yes, many side hustles can be done on your own schedule and remotely, allowing you to fit them in around your full-time job.
  1. How much money can I make from a side hustle?
  • The amount of money you can make from a side hustle depends on the type of side hustle you choose, the amount of time and effort you put into it, and your level of skill and expertise. Some people make a full-time income from their side hustle, while others make extra money on the side.
  1. Do I need any special skills or qualifications to start a side hustle?
  • It depends on the side hustle you choose. Some side hustles require specific skills or qualifications, while others do not. It’s important to research and plan before starting a new venture.
  1. Can I use my side hustle as a replacement for my full-time job?
  1. Do I need to pay taxes on the money I earn from my side hustle?
  1. How do I find side hustle opportunities?
  • There are many ways to find side hustle opportunities, including online platforms, local classifieds, and networking with other entrepreneurs and professionals.
  1. How much startup costs should I expect with a side hustle?
  • The startup costs will depend on the side hustle you choose. Some side hustles may have little to no startup costs, while others may require a significant investment. It’s important to research and plan before starting a new venture.
  1. How can I balance a side hustle with a full-time job?
  • It’s important to set realistic goals and manage your time effectively. It’s also important to communicate with your employer and make sure your side hustle does not interfere with your full-time job.
  1. How do I market my side hustle to attract customers?
  • There are a variety of ways to market your side hustle, including social media, online platforms, referral marketing, and networking.
  1. How can I manage my finances when running a side hustle?
  • It’s important to keep track of your income and expenses, and set aside money for taxes. You should also consider setting up a separate bank account for your side hustle finances.
  1. How do I know if a side hustle is right for me?
  • Consider your skills, interests, and goals when choosing a side hustle. Research the market and the competition, and make sure you have a plan for how to balance it with your full-time job.
  1. Can I get insurance for my side hustle?
  • It depends on the type of side hustle you have, but there are insurance options available for some side hustles such as pet-sitting or handyman services. It’s important to research and consider insurance options before starting your side hustle.
  1. How can I scale my side hustle to make more money?
  • Consider expanding your services, increasing your prices, or taking on more clients. It’s also important to continue to market and promote your side hustle to attract new customers.
  1. How can I make my side hustle stand out from the competition?
  • Offer unique services, build a strong brand, and provide excellent customer service. Networking and building relationships with other entrepreneurs and professionals can also help you stand out.
  1. How can I network and find other like-minded individuals in the side hustle industry?
  • You can network and find like-minded individuals in the side hustle industry by attending networking events, joining online communities, or reaching out to other entrepreneurs and professionals in your field.
  1. How can I measure my success and track my progress when running a side hustle?
  • You can measure your success and track your progress by keeping track of your income and expenses, setting goals, and regularly reviewing your progress.
  1. How do I know when it’s time to quit my side hustle?
  • It’s important to regularly review your progress and consider factors such as income, time, and stress. If your side hustle is no longer meeting your financial or personal goals, it may be time to consider quitting.
  1. How can I find resources and support when running a side hustle?
  • There are many resources and support available for side hustlers, including online communities, networking groups, local small business resources, and entrepreneurial programs.
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BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE LISTS YOUTUBE

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money 3

Working online is turning into more and more standard because of the pliability, diversity, and income-earning potential that online jobs offer. Plus, the start-up prices area unit minimal, and there area unit a spread of gigs looking on your interest and ability set. In fact, after I started my online business some years past, it prices American state virtually nothing, and that I had very little expertise.

But through trial and error and loads of toil, I have been able to create a regular financial gain from my online jobs for students.

If you are inquisitive about beginning your own online gig, there are unit lots of opportunities accessible.

Legitimate Online Jobs For Students

With the number of online jobs for students choices, it is onerous to grasp which of them are legitimate and which of them are not price sometimes. This list covers a number of the foremost standard and doubtless profitable decisions.

Featured Online Jobs

Most of the roles during this entire list are appropriate for anyone, however, I have divided them into classes for college students, moms, kids, and academics for simple sorting. This 1st list is best for anyone just because there is such a good type of victorious individuals operating these online jobs for students, and that they do not need any special degrees or certifications.

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money 1

Product Tester

Pay: $5 to $15 per hour

As we know Product testing is a fun online job for students that allows us to make money working with products that you already want. As a paid product tester, you can test and review both physical and digital products.

After signing up for a product testing company like Vindale Research, you will get matched with products from various companies. Additionally, product testing opportunities periodically arise on Swagbucks Discover; checking in on both platforms from time to time will maximize the odds you are eligible for an offer. Once you receive and test a product, you will follow the instructions and complete a survey or similar task to provide your insights and feedback.

You will be paid in money gift cards, or get to keep the product you have tested. This is not a full-time online job for students’ opportunity, but it can make a good side hustle.

Online Seller

Pay: $40 to $60 on the average per box of items

You can sell nearly something online. Furniture, unused makeup, recent cell phones, and different school area unit are all viable choices.

If you have got youngsters, you will simply sell their gently used shoes, clothes, toys, and gadgets once they have outgrown them. If you get pleasure from this sort of online job for students, you will begin reconnoitring native yard sales, insect markets, and Facebook commerce teams for things to sell

When you find a used item at a steep discount, you can sell it on a site like Decluttr to flip for a profit. The more often you do this, the more money you can earn.

Blogger

Pay: $1 to $2,000+ per month

Blogging is an internet job wherever you will be able to make money on a part-time schedule. If you relish writing and serving others, and you recognize the way to be persistent notwithstanding you are not making money, blogging may be a decent appropriate you. It usually takes at least 6 to 18 months to start making money from a blog.

The fun thing about blogging as an online job for students is that you can choose a topic you are truly passionate about, and the opportunities from blogging are virtually limitless.

The four main ways to make money from blogging include:

  • Advertising – You get paid for putting ads on your blog.
  • Affiliate Marketing – This is where you get paid a commission for any products that you sell via your blog.
  • Digital Products – You can sell your own eBooks, courses, etc.
  • Services – If you like to work one on one with people, a blog can be a great way to generate leads for coaching, consulting, etc.

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money 2

Facebook Ads Manager

Pay: $1,000 to $2,000+ per month

Many native business homeowners understand they have to advertise online, anyway, they do not acumen or do not have enough workers to figure thereon. If you have got Facebook and are at home with its advertising platform, or if you are willing to place within the time to be told, you can start contacting local businesses to offer Facebook ad services.

That is what Bobby Hoyt did. An avid digital marketer and blogger, he started offering Facebook ad management services to local businesses in his area and eventually turned that operation into a sizable income for himself. He launched his own FB Side Hustle Course that teaches others how to do the same. You can do this as a side hustle or turn it into a full-time job.

Dropshipping

Pay: $25 to $500+ per item sold

With dropshipping, you set up a storefront on a platform like Shopify, list your merchandise, then have the orders shipped on to a client from the provider.

This is an incredible possibility for anyone trying to find an internet job as a result of it permits you to figure in sales while not touching the physical product throughout a dealing and earn a decent financial gain at constant time.

You can sell anything from T-shirts to event tickets and consulting services, so this is an incredibly flexible online job for students.

Though the profit margin of dropshipping is not as high as when stocking and shipping your own physical products, the benefits of a completely hands-off method make it worthwhile.

Online Jobs for Students

These online jobs for students provide flexible options and offer a balance between concentrating on your studies while earning some extra money.

Freelance Writer

Pay: $50 to $500+ per article

If you love writing and can find clients that need content, then becoming a freelance writer may be a good online job for you.

It is okay to begin on a platform like Fiverr or FreelanceWriting.Com, however, you won’t notice high-paying freelance writing jobs on these sites. To earn a good financial gain, you will get to work directly with websites, companies, or online magazines.

You can additionally explore for purchasers by connecting with diary homeowners, native businesses, and native newspapers that may like writers. Otherwise to search out jobs is to affix writing Facebook teams. The competition is often fierce, however, you will have best if you are persistent and need to enhance.

Once you have established a solid portfolio, client roster, and testimonials, you can raise your prices.

Holly Johnson started freelance writing and went from making $0 to six figures a year using her own unique strategies. Now she teaches a course for freelancers to follow in her footsteps.

Proofreader

Pay: $10 to $45 per hour

There are many online jobs for students that allow you to make money proofreading, but you should not overlook the opportunities on campus.

Consider seeking out fellow students who could use a proofreader before turning in their next paper.

Proofreading is less in-depth than editing. Rather than making extensive corrections and suggestions, you work as a second set of eyes, looking for typos, spelling errors, and other minor issues to clean up their papers before they are submitted for grading.

Textbook Seller

Pay: 15% to 50% per book sold

Students area unit excellent candidates for book reconnoitring or mercantilism textbooks online. There are unit lots of, if not thousands, of scholars on school campuses United Nations agency, has not any interest in reselling their own textbook.

You can take advantage of their lack of time or motivation and offer to sell those books for your friends on a site like Textbroker. Negotiate a selling price, along with the fee you get per book, and do the work for them. As time allows, you can even scout online book prices and buy/sell during the prime textbook season (before the start of each new semester).

Can You Make Money on Facebook Videos? 2

Social Media Manager

Pay: $15 to $40 per hour

If you are an avid social media user, you can put your skills and time to good use by starting an online job for students as a social media manager.

Managing a business’s social media is comparable to managing your own Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. To be visible and well-known on social media, you have got to be not simply active, but interactive. Once somebody posts a comment or non-public message to you, you wish to reply quickly

Businesses often fail at social media because they do not have someone dedicated to staying active on various social media platforms. They often do not have staff available to respond to comments, create new and engaging posts, or monitor conversations within their communities.

Local businesses offer prime opportunities for finding an online job for students as social media managers. You can send an email, but it may be good to call or visit local businesses or introduce yourself through their social media pages as a college student looking to help.

Some businesses will not be interested, while others may jump on the opportunity to get more exposure online.

Data Entry Specialist

Pay: $10 to $17 per hour

Data entry jobs square measure legit choices for faculty students, however, you must consider carefully before applying. They are straightforward, however, they have a tendency to pay less and need longer than alternative choices.

The best thing about data entry jobs is that the work is flexible and can be done in your spare time. You can take on as much or as little work as needed depending on your schedule.

If you are interested in finding a data entry job, start with a platform like Clickworker or DionData Solutions.

If you are looking for online jobs for students that are perfect for moms, consider some of these options. Keep in mind that any of the work-from-home jobs can be tweaked to work for you as well.

Virtual Assistant

Pay: $19 to $25 per hour

Becoming a virtual assistant to an Associate in Nursing already established online business is one of all the simplest online jobs to do, and you will begin before long.

Virtual assistants typically handle things like programming, client support, body help, email promoting, social media posting, journal management, and far a lot of

You can offer whatever services you feel comfortable doing, and you can add more to your menu of services as you gain experience. Or, if you prefer, you can specialize in just one or two areas.

Reach out to small business owners and online entrepreneurs, or connect with other VAs in Facebook groups. They might have leads for your first few clients or tips on how to maximize your earnings.

Graphic Designer

Pay: $25 to $50 per hour

You do not need an art degree to become a graphic designer. There square measure online jobs for students that need graphic style skills for comes like making printable sheets, flyers, announcements, ads, or Pinterest pictures.

If you have got a watch for style and acumen to use tools like Canva or PicMonkey, there is an internet job expecting you. Making stunning Pinterest and alternative social media pictures is in high demand among bloggers and website homeowners and may facilitate virtually any business to attract contemporary traffic to its website.

Niche Website Creator

Pay: $100 to $10,000+ per site

If you are well-versed in search engine optimization (SEO) and understand how to get a site ranked on the first page of Google, you could make money creating niche websites. From hiking and mountain climbing to baby-rearing, there is no limit when choosing a topic.

A niche website is not like a typical blog where you have to add fresh content weekly. Instead, you set up a few landing pages that sell affiliate products in a single niche. There is no guarantee that a certain niche will be profitable, but you can start brainstorming topics that you think are being underserved.

After you have built the site and made it profitable, you can keep it to earn passive income or sell the site on a marketplace like Flippa.Com.

Setting up a niche site is similar to establishing a regular blog. If you know how to do that, you can get started creating your niche site right away.

Can You Make Money on Facebook? 2

Website Designer

Pay: $20 to $100 per hour

It is possible to learn how to design blogs and e-commerce websites without any formal coaching because of drag-and-drop builders that simply integrate with platforms like Shopify. If you are technically inclined and may spot the variations between a handsome website and a nasty one, you would possibly be able to begin planning and building websites for others.

Designing websites does not mean you need to reinvent the internet or create complex-looking websites. It means you need to know what looks good, is user-friendly, and meets your clients’ needs.

Although it is a simple process, many people are overwhelmed by the thought of creating their own website, and it is a gap you can fill while earning a good income.

Social Media Influencer

Pay: $20 to $100 per hour

If you prefer sharing your favourite deals, books, clothes, and alternative merchandise on social media and have engineered a loyal following, you will notice work as a social media influencer. With this job, corporations pay you to market their merchandise to your audience, and you will earn a proportion of the sales they create from your affiliate or referral links.

It does not take much to become a social media influencer if you choose a niche that is profitable and one you are passionate about it. You will need to post on your social media channels consistently and engage with your followers to grow your influence and your income.

There are companies like the Amazon Influencer Program and ShopStyle.Com that allow you to post-paid links on your profile.

Amazon Seller

Pay: $15 to $100+ per hour

Everyone shops on Amazon these days, which is why you can make a good income through Amazon as well.

The conception of Amazon arbitrage is straightforward, however, the method may be tedious. You discover discounted physical merchandise at your native stores and sell them at a profit on Amazon.

Though it sounds simple, your profits will quickly decrease because of Amazon’s sellers’ fees, shipping expenses, and time spent. However, if you already pay time thrift store searching or discount searching, then this online job for students may be for you.

Tutor

Pay: $14 to $22+ per hour

Online jobs where you can tutor students are a fantastic way for teachers to make money fast. You can sign up at any of these sites and tutor students on the subjects of your expertise

Outschool (does not require teaching experience; average pay is $40 per hour)

Wyzant (set your own rate)

VIPKid (bachelor’s degree required; pay is $14-$22 per hour)

YouTube Channel Creator

Pay: $0 to $2,000 per month

Kids making videos on YouTube is a huge industry right now. Ryan, the star of Ryan’s World, made $22 million in revenue in one year. With the help of his mom and dad, his channel became popular with kids everywhere.

Unfortunately, it is not as easy as recording a video, uploading it to YouTube, and watching the money roll in. YouTube made some changes to its minimum subscriber and view requirements before a channel can start making money.

Once those minimums are met, then you can place ads on the videos to create an income stream. That is why promoting your YouTube channel on other platforms is also important.

If your kids are driven and ready to be in front of a camera, then they might love the idea of making a profitable YouTube channel. You most likely will not earn the same amount of money as Ryan’s World, but you can earn something.

Amazon eBook Publisher

Pay: Up to 70% of each copy sold

Publishing a book on Amazon Kindle is easy and simple, but it is not a guaranteed way to make a lot of money. The books need to be well-written, edited, have a catchy cover, and have a clear marketing strategy. However, if you have a good idea, eBooks provide a way for your aspiring writer or illustrator to start earning some income.

If your teen has a talent for writing stories or drawing cartoons or picture books, you can help them start creating and uploading books to sell. This may be a fun way for them to earn money with their creativity.

Find Something You Like and Run With It

If you are interested in earning money online, there are many choices. To search out the proper one, brainstorm and admit your hobbies, skills, and abilities and choose one that works with those. If you cannot notice an associate degree existing job, you will be able to even produce one.

The best half regarding online jobs for students is that you simply will observe money from home by doing quite one gig or job at a time. If you wish to possess a diary and tutor, otherwise you need to possess an associate degree Etsy store and a YouTube channel and may work it all into your schedule, you can. A lot of you will be able to do to maximize your financial gain to realize your money goals, the higher you will be within the end of the day.

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BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE

6 Money Making Mistakes Freelancers And The Self-employed Make

6 Money Making Mistakes Freelancers And The Self-employed Make

Perhaps you’ve recently considered leaving your full-time job to undertake a new challenge in your career. From freelancing, or even turning your side hustle into a full-time gig, there are various reasons so many people have recently decided to permanently quit the workforce.

Due – Due

While self-employment does offer better flexibility in your schedule, the ability to be your boss, and having the relaxation to work from home, it’s no wonder more than four million people were seen quitting their jobs during January 2020.

Times have been changing since the advent of the pandemic, and extended lockdowns have shown people that starting their own business can be financially beneficial if done right, and not having to answer to anyone else can help improve innovation and productivity.

Yes, being self-employed has its perks, and it’s become undeniable that working from home, and being your own boss is a lot more attractive than being stuck in an office or having to work for a company that doesn’t have the same moral stance as you.

Starting a business, whether it’s in your hometown, or perhaps somewhere else also brings financial constraints, even if it looks like the grass is greener on the other side. There are a lot one first needs to consider before making any drastic changes.

So whether you may be currently caught in the middle of leaving your job, or maybe you’ve already quit, it’s time to start talking about the financial mistakes you may endure in your time as a self-employed individual.

From budgeting, time management, work-life balance, and saving properly – there are a number of mistakes freelancers and the self-employed are making, and this article will help you avoid those mistakes.

Not Budgeting Properly

Right from the start, it’s time to get your finances sorted. Now that you’ve left a steady job, and a full-time salary, you need to start budgeting a lot better. Counting every dime and nickel you spend, and cutting back on unnecessary expenses.

There’s a simple equation that works, and it’s one you can apply to either when you’re freelancing, or when you still receive a monthly paycheck.

Split your earnings as follow:

  • 50% Needs: These will be important bills such as utilities, mortgage, rent, and groceries.
  • 30% Wants: This can be for things you want at a certain time, such as luxuries, or eating out now and again but aren’t truly a necessity.
  • 20% Savings: It’s advised that you put at least 20% of your earnings in savings, an emergency fund or perhaps return that money into the business

If you’re operating a small business from home, or online, you will have to make cutbacks on your wants, as this will help you save a lot more, and you can use any excess cash to support the business.

Inadequate Use of Time

Perhaps one of the reasons you decided to work for yourself or start your own business is because it gives you the ability to spend more time with your family and do what you enjoy. While this may be the case, a lot of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and self-employed people still don’t understand the value of time.

Now that you have more time to do a lot of different things, it should be second nature to prioritize certain tasks and projects. Consider work that’s a high priority, and get that out of the way first.

Have a diary or tabletop calendar where you can write down important tasks that need attention. Focus on the important things first, before you go on to complete other projects.

Yes, having balance as a freelancer or self-employed person isn’t easy, working from home and maybe still having a family, but consider how every minute or hour you’re spending doing something unimportant, you could be using that time to learn a new skill, grow your network, look for new clients, or finalize a certain project.

Time is money, and it’s a standing fact you need to grasp right from the very start.

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Unable to Separate Business and Personal Expenses

So perhaps you might have an idea on how to budget now, but you’re still not seeing any money come in and being put back into your business or entrepreneurial ventures.

Separating personal and business expenses is one of the main reasons a lot of small businesses, or freelancers can struggle to make money.

Although your new self-employment may only start taking off, you need to consider the money that’s coming in, and how it’s being divided.

For personal expenses, use your checking account, as money comes into the business, pay yourself a small salary, if possible. That account and money can now be used for personal purchases.

Any business-related purchases should be captured in a spreadsheet for tax-related purchases, and to ensure you don’t overspend on the business side.

As the business grows, or you start getting more jobs, you can start thinking of setting up a business account. Just remember, once you set up a business bank account, there can be tax-related expenses and filing you will need to adhere to, so be sure your business is on a level of income before opening a business bank account.

Not Tracking Expenses and Revenue

This goes hand-in-hand with separating personal and business-related expenses, and you must consider what you’re spending, over how much you’re getting in.

Some business owners tend to overspend, purchasing new stock, or goods when it’s not needed, or perhaps even when there’s not even cash flow to make a large purchase that isn’t needed right now.

It’s vital to the success of your business or freelance career that you keep track of how much is being spent, over the amount you’re making. If you’re a freelancer that works from home, purchasing expensive office equipment you might not require right now can make a dent in your budget.

The same goes for an entrepreneur making large business purchases when there’s not sufficient cash flow to sustain it.

Make sure that expenses are not more than your revenue or income, if you start seeing red on your books and in the budget, then it’s time to start paying closer attention to your budget.

Savings. Savings. Savings.

So perhaps you already had a healthy-looking savings account before you quit your job. By now, you started using some of that savings to either get your business off the ground, making necessary payments until actual money starts coming in, or you paid off some outstanding credit card debt.

Whatever you spent your savings on, it’s important that you now look to put back what you have taken out. It might not be possible immediately, but over time as you start generating a substantial income, you can place a portion of your revenue or income into your savings.

Your savings is your lifeline when you reach a point when sales were lower than you anticipated, or perhaps you haven’t received as many contracts as you’d hoped for.

Keep track of how much money you’re setting aside as an emergency fund, as you’re now completely in control of your money, expenses, and the income you make, you have to consider the seriousness of your savings.

Before anything else, make sure that you set aside at least 20% to 30% of your income into a savings account. You can also be smart about it, and place it in an account that receives a decent percentage of interest every month, or in a mutual fund.

Be sure to do proper research before you start looking at various ways you can make your savings grow, as you can run the risk of losing it as well.

6 Money Making Mistakes Freelancers And The Self-employed Make 1

No Efficient Tax Planning

Taxes are different for self-employed workers or working as a freelancer, and the sooner you get on top of it, the better.

For self-employed people, you will generally report your income and withhold your own taxes. There could be a possibility that you will need to pay a self-employment tax as well, and if you operate a small business, there could be business-related taxes that need to be filed as well.

Freelancers would also need to learn the rules of what to file, withhold and report, especially if you work from home.

It’s good that you plan for taxes as you start your new career ventures, as it’ll help you see how much money you need to set aside for taxes.

There are also different categories for business tax and freelance taxes, which can range from business expenses and purchases to personal expenses that can be filed as a business purchase. It’s a tricky and complicated system that if not properly understood, can cost you quite the amount of effort and money.

Now that you’re self-employed, and being your own boss, it’s time that you start taking better care of your finances. Not having that hefty paycheck each month, and having to make your own money comes with a lot of responsibility.

The better you understand how to work with money, and how to budget and save up for an emergency, the more comfortable you’ll become with business and personal finances.

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DEEP DIVE ARTICLE HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE YOUTUBE

Top 30 Side Hustles for Students

Top 30 Side Hustles for Students 4

Being a student isn’t easy, and one of the biggest hardships you will face as a student is finding the finances to do things like… well… eat. Fortunately, the has never been more opportunity for students (or anyone, for that matter) to make a little extra income on the side.

In the interests of making life a little easier for our intrepid knowledge seekers and future leaders, we’ve put together a list of thirty side hustles that students can help make life a little easier while you are putting yourself through higher education.

Start a YouTube Channel

YouTube has made many people rich, and even though those people are a huge minority, there are many many more people who make a respectable side income from the platform.

And, given the popularity of YouTube, there is no shortage of advice out there to get you started. You can even start right here! You can create a channel around something you are passionate about, something you are knowledgeable about (both is a bonus) or even what you are studying.

Start a Blog

Essentially the same premise as starting a YouTube channel, just with written words instead of video! As with YouTube, you can start a blog about anything you have a passion for, special interest in, or knowledge of. It could be the subject you are studying, your favourite genre of movie or novel, or just weird facts from around the world.

If you have a talent for telling an interesting story, you can put that talent to work in blog form.

Offer Dog Walking Services

You don’t need to limit your side hustles to things online, of course. One example of a real-world side hustle is dog walking services. Pet dogs are more popular than ever, but that popularity, unfortunately, coincides with a time when more of us are out working than ever before.

Enter the intrepid dog walker.

If you like dogs, you could make a respectable side income by taking several of the furry little critters out for walkies, giving their owners some peace of mind in knowing that their best friend isn’t being neglected at home.

Become an App Tester

A lot of effort goes into making apps work, but all the effort in the world won’t make up for a lack of user feedback. App developers naturally would rather get that feedback under controlled circumstances, rather than putting an app out and waiting for the negative reviews.

That’s where app testing comes in. There are many services that provide the opportunity to be an app tester, here are a few of them;

Top 30 Side Hustles for Students

Become a Secret Shopper

Secret shopping is the kind of side hustle that will sound like a dream come true to the right kind of person. Also called “mystery shoppers”, these are people who are paid to shop in stores or eat in restaurants with the hidden agenda of collecting information.

There isn’t a great deal of financial rewards for this side hustle, but you will typically be reimbursed for your purchases.

Take Paid Surveys

One of the older and more well-known side hustles of the Internet age is the paid survey. Exactly as the name suggests, paid survey companies will pay you a modest sum to complete a survey, with your answers being valuable to market researchers and other similar parties. Here are a few paid survey sites to get you started;

Become Part of the Machine

If you don’t have a particular skill or interest in mind for your side hustle, you could take a more generalised approach with something like Amazon’s Mechanical Turk. This is a service that operates on the principle that humans are still better than machines at some things. Essentially, people who need a large number of small tasks doing (things like tagging images) can sign up and do just that.

Offer Online Tutoring

If you’re a student, it’s safe to say you’ve at least done well through primary and secondary education. That’s great for you, but there are millions of children (and adults) who are struggling with this very thing.

You can offer online tutoring in subjects like maths. Or, if you have particular areas of expertise, you could tutor in those as well.

Start an Online Course

On the subject of areas of expertise, if you are particularly knowledgeable in something, you could create an online course around it. Again, this could be something you are just good at, or it could be something you are studying, perhaps offering an introductory level of education to a subject that you are studying at an advanced level.

Sell Old Items

Granted, you wouldn’t be able to keep selling old items forever, but there are several apps (and, of course, eBay) designed to make it easy for you to find a buyer for some of your old things, from clothes to gadgets.

Become a Reseller

Essentially, the difference between someone selling old items and this suggestion is that you will be first seeking out items to sell before you can sell them. This might mean scouring things like Facebook Marketplace and Craiglist for hidden gems, or it could even mean buying things in bulk to get the price down.

Top 30 Side Hustles for Students 1

Become an Affiliate Marketer

Affiliate marketing is the process of advertising someone else’s product in exchange for a “piece of the action”, so to speak. The most well-known example of this is Amazon Affiliates, where you can link to any product on Amazon and make a little cut of any sales you generate.

This side hustle works best if you have something to pair it with, such as a YouTube channel, or a blog, but really anywhere you can promote something will work. You could even go door-to-door… but we wouldn’t recommend it.

Sell Print-on-Demand Merchandise

Got a flair for design? There are many services on the Internet that allows you to create products like t-shirts, mugs, mouse mats, and other things of that nature with little more than a click of the upload button.

Again, this works especially well if you have a popular YouTube channel to base your products on, but if you can create compelling designs, you can certainly make print-on-demand merchandise a successful side hustle in its own right.

Sell Artwork or Photography

If you do have that creative flair mentioned in the last tip, you could always put it to good use in other fields, such as selling artwork and photography. A number of sites will let you upload stock imagery so that you can profit from the licensing of those images. Just remember that once you do this, you have no control over how the image gets used, so be careful what images you choose to sell.

Write an eBook (or a physical one)

When “write a book” is suggested, the first thing people tend to think of is a novel. Now, if you have it in you to write a novel, certainly give it a go. But as side hustles go, it’s not the most effective way to make money. Given the typical time it takes to write a novel combined with how long an average publisher takes to respond (probably to say “no thanks”), you might not be a student by the time you see any money from a novel.

But you can create eBooks (or regular books) that are non-fiction and centred around something you are an expert in.

Offer Proofreading and Editing Services

Don’t fancy writing a book? What about proofreading someone else’s? Most of us can put together a blog post, but we’re not all up to a professional standard with the technical aspects of our writing.

If you are confident in your command of the English language (or any language, for that matter), you can offer your services as an editor or proofreader, checking other people’s work for mistakes.

Become an Influencer

Granted, not everyone can become an influencer, but if you have an entertaining personality and you like being in front of the camera, becoming an influencer may be a viable option for you.

Influencers typically operate through social media platforms, such as—Instagram, or Facebook—and can earn money through brand deals.

Become a Ride-Share Service Driver

If you have a car, you could consider working for a ride-share company like Uber, or Lyft. Services like this give you the ability to have complete control over the amount of time you spend working on your side hustle—a kind of flexibility that is a must for busy students.

Become a Virtual Assistant

No, we’re not suggesting you be available 24/7 to respond to questions anytime someone says “Siri” to their iPhone or “Alexa” to their Amazon Echo. Websites like PeoplePerHour.com make it possible for you to find people who need certain assistant-like tasks completed, such as email management.

Review Apps and Websites

Similar to testing apps, there are also sites that will pay you to review apps and websites. We’re not talking about being paid to review something by the company that made that thing—that would be cheating. This is typically for sites that offer consumer information, and want a large number of honest reviews.

Become a Translator

If you know more than one language, you could find work as a translator. This will typically be written word translation, but you can certainly find verbal work as well. This could even be paired with our “transcribe audio” suggestion a little further down.

Top 30 Side Hustles for Students 2

Deliver Things

Similar to Uber (indeed, including Uber), there are companies that offer the delivery of things like food and other items, and they need people to make those deliveries. Unlike Uber, however, this work doesn’t necessarily need a car. It’s a common service offered in big cities and can be done on a bike.

Offer Cleaning Services

Many of us struggle to find time to keep our homes or workplaces as clean as we’d like, so why not take that load off someone’s mind by offering cleaning services! This sort of work can be done in the evening or on a weekend, so it shouldn’t affect your studies.

Sell Advertising Space on Your Car

Getting your brand in front of eyeballs is most of the battle for advertisers, but that’s good for you because it means you can get paid simply for letting advertisers use your car as an ad. Services like Carvertise will pay you as much as $500 a month to put ads on your vehicle.

Rent Out Your Car

Or you could rent out the whole thing! Car-sharing services like Getaround can connect you with people who need to rent a car, letting you earn a little extra cash. If you’re not using your car at the time, this one is a no-brainer.

Rent Out Your Parking Space

If you have a parking space you’re not using in a part of the world where it’s hard to find parking spaces (we’re looking at you, London), you could rent it out to someone, and put that land to good use.

Transcribe Audio

While speech-to-text recognition is getting better by the day, humans are still often needed to transcribe audio. You don’t need any particular skill for this, but being a good typist will make your life much easier if you decide to take on some transcription work.

Become a Freelancer

If you have a skill, you could just charge people to use it. Whether it’s copywriting, illustration, video production, and more And the good thing about freelancing is that if you like it, freelancing can always become a full career when you are done with your studies.

Become a Social Media Manager

If you have a knack for social media, there are plenty of people out there who do not that would be willing to pay you to help them grow their online presence.

Get a Part-Time Job

And, finally, the obvious one. From tending bar to stacking shelves, there is always the option to go out and get a part-time job, earning money the old fashioned way.

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HOW TO BE SELF EMPLOYED – The Hard Lessons You Learn When Your Are Your Own Boss (EP011) // In the news – FairTube YouTubers Union. Podcast – Are you dreaming about shaking of the shackles of the 9to5 grind and becoming your won boss? Have you handed in your notice and just settled down to your first week of work? or are you wondering if its he right move for you, this podcast is for you. Today I deep dive into the hardships that come with going freelance/self employed and the things you might not have considered would be a hurdle in your new adventure.

Also in the news we talk about the #FairTube YouTubers how this will effect youtube and what I feel about in with a deep dive.

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