Why You Need a Side Hustle in 2025 (And How to Start One Today)

We all know it, but I’ll say it anyway— work is tough.

I have a love-hate relationship with my job. To be honest, it’s not for everyone. Long hours, high demands, and the constant pressure can take a toll. And don’t even get me started on burnout.

Don’t get me wrong. I love my job. I’ve been a nurse for over a decade. I even tried stepping away, exploring different non-clinical jobs, but somehow, I always found my way back.

The truth is, after years in my profession, burnout starts creeping in. But bills won’t pay themselves, and cutting back on shifts isn’t always an option. That’s when I started thinking…

What if I could bring in extra income without relying on hospital shifts? What if there was a way to have more freedom without sacrificing financial security?

That’s where side hustles come in!

In fact, millions of professionals are now running side businesses—not just for extra income but for flexibility and long-term financial freedom. In the United States alone, 50% of nurses have side jobs apart from their clinical work.

You know why? Because a side hustle isn’t just about making extra cash—it’s about giving yourself options.

Whether you want to pay off student loans faster, work fewer shifts, or save something for your emergency fund, a side hustle can change your life.

Now, let’s dive into why you need a side hustle and how you can start one today.

Why you need a side hustle

Burnout is real, and you need a backup plan

According to a 2024 study, nearly 50% of workers across eight countries are struggling with burnout—and that says a lot.

Long hours, tight deadlines, and constant demands make it hard to stay in the same role for decades.

In my profession, 30% of nurses are leaving the bedside due to burnout according to a study in 2018 conducted at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

I, for one, left bedside nursing (after nearly 8 years) and transferred to an outpatient department. 

A side hustle gives you a way to step back when needed—without worrying about money.

Your salary has limits (but your income doesn’t have to)

Even if you love your job, your salary has a ceiling. Nursing pays well, but there’s a ceiling and the cost of living just keeps on rising.

Raises aren’t always guaranteed, and working overtime or extra hours isn’t sustainable.

A side hustle lets you earn on your own terms, whether it’s freelancing, starting a small online business, or investing in passive income streams.

Financial freedom means more choices

Depending only on your paycheck can feel pretty restrictive. Sure, it pays the bills, but what about everything else?

A side hustle isn’t just about making extra money—it’s about giving yourself financial freedom.

Pay off debt faster –  Imagine getting rid of loans or credit card debt years sooner. A side hustle can speed up the process.

Work fewer overtime hours – We’ve all been tempted (or pressured) to work extra hours. But what if you didn’t have to? A side hustle gives you the power to say no.

Take a guilt-free vacation – You work hard. You deserve a break. With extra income, you don’t have to stress about whether you can afford it—you can just book the trip and go.

Build a financial safety net – Life happens. Unexpected bills, emergencies, or the desire to change careers—having another income stream gives you the flexibility to handle it without panic.

At the end of the day, when you’re not dependent on your 9-5 job for income, you call the shots. You get to decide how much you work, how you spend your money, and what kind of future you’re building.

So, for the past couple of days, I’ve been doing a lot of research about this. I’ve probably read all the articles that list side gigs for nurses. And I also asked around (crowdsourcing) to get more personal insights.

But one thing I’ve learned is that not all side hustles are created equal. As a nurse, you already have transferable skills that can help you earn outside the hospital.

Freelancing & Service-Based Side Hustles

Freelance writing – Get paid to write for health blogs, magazines, or brands. I actually restarted my freelance writing journey, so stay tuned for more posts about this!

Consulting or coaching – Offer expertise in your field, from career coaching to business consulting.

Virtual Assistant (VA) – Help business owners with admin tasks, social media, or customer support.

Medical or Legal Transcription – Type up reports and documents for professionals.

Creative & Online Side Hustles

Starting a blog – Share your knowledge and earn through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Selling digital products – Create and sell planners, e-books, or online courses.

Etsy shop – Sell printables, handmade items, or niche products.

Writing ebooks or books – Write and sell e-books or guides in your area of expertise.

Hands-On Side Hustles Outside of Work

Lash lifts or aesthetics – Many professionals start beauty side businesses.

Real estate investing – Use your main income to invest in rental properties.

Event planning – Use your organizational skills to plan weddings or corporate events.

Photography & videography – Capture moments at events or create content for brands and make money from your creative skills.

English Coaching – Help non-native speakers improve their English, especially in medical or conversational settings, through online tutoring.

How to start your side hustle

One of the reasons why most people I know are hesitant about starting a side hustle is because they think it’s another stress to their life.

I totally get it. There’s always a lot to consider. I felt the same about starting an Etsy shop earlier this year. With a new baby, the timing felt all wrong. But after thinking it through, I realized it didn’t have to be stressful unless I let it.

Now, I’m making a little extra every month from my shop.

So if you’re feeling hesitant, I’m here to tell you: starting a side hustle doesn’t have to add stress to your life. It can actually give you more freedom.

Here’s how to do it the right way:

Pick something that fits your lifestyle

If you already work 40+ hours a week, a flexible side hustle (like freelancing or selling digital products) might be better than something time-consuming.

Start small—but start now

You don’t need to quit your job or invest thousands. Start with a few hours a week and grow from there.

Use what you already know

Your nursing experience is valuable! Whether it’s writing, coaching, or teaching, use what you already know to make money.

Stay consistent and be patient

Side hustles take time to grow, but they’re worth it. Even an extra £50 a month can make a big difference.

Ready to start your side hustle?

A side hustle isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom, options, and creating a future where you’re in control.

Whether you want to write, sell products, or start a service-based business, there’s a side hustle out there for you. The key is to start.

Need ideas or support? Stay tuned for more side hustle tips, and step-by-step guides.