It’s my favorite time of the month…..er, don’t know if that sounded right? 🙂 In the personal finance world, end of month updates are a great time to sneak a peek at people’s net worth updates, cheer on fellow debt bloggers, and generally keep up with what’s going on in the community. I love it!
I knew March was going to be a crazy month as I worked every single weekend. I thought the work was coming to an end and told myself I’d relax in April. However, the late night carnival-esque side gig got extended through April. I’ve decided to only work three days for them the entire month. Going to bed at 4am on weekends, and then waking up at 7am during the week isn’t really working out too well. I’m getting by, but that’s exactly what I’d call it. Yes, I’m making the money honey, but I’m pretty exhausted and have had moments where I felt like I was losing my mind (see downsides of side hustling).
I confidently scaled down on those hours because I happily booked other gigs! I have some freelance writing gigs in the queue and I can’t tell you how excited I am. Compared to always being on the go, juggling transportation, and eating when I can, I prefer the low-maintenance quality of writing at home.
In addition, I got a part-time job. In December, I worked a holiday party and had a great time. I sent my standard thank you, letting them know I am always available should they need my services again. Radio silence. Oh well, I thought. Some of these gigs are really one-off. Three months later, they contacted me and said they want me to be their part-time events assistant! It’s at a Jewish congregation (and I’m not Jewish), and it’s really fascinating to learn more about the culture and their celebrations. You never really know what one side gig will lead to (see the benefits of side hustling). The work is only 2-5x per month, so it won’t be too consuming.
All in all, I’m juggling my real job, carnival, congregation, and writing! Part of me wants to apologize here for not being as active/supportive to my friends, but I have to remember I’m not doing anything wrong.
The best part of all of this, is that I got some more work for my partner, too! Both the carnival and congregation were in need of more people, so I told them I knew the perfect person. The couple that makes money together, stays together?
Overall, It’s been a pretty good month. I made $778 in side hustle income, and more of that will hit in April. The first half I also spent a lot on food. In addition, my taxes were withdrawn and I had some other unexpected bills.
I know what you are thinking…..SHOW ME THE MONEY!
I put $1,206 towards my student loan debt this month.
I am hoping to continue at this pace, but won’t be too hard on myself as I’m looking forward to a break. In two weeks, I am taking the whole weekend off (gasp) and going wine tasting all weekend. We’ll even be staying at a hotel (that was free from credit card points!) an hour outside of Portland. At this point, it’s much-needed and the one thing keeping me going.
Aside from all the work, I did have some fun. I got to meet Mackenzie in person, which was a dream. She is such a talented writer and amazing person. Meeting people in real life motivates me to no end, so I’m thrilled about FinCon.
How was March for you? What do you have to look forward to in April?
- Talking About Money and Mental Health - September 12, 2022
- Dear Debt, We’re Better Apart - June 27, 2022
- Announcing The Mental Health and Wealth Summit - May 4, 2021
41 comments
Good for you that you have more freelance writing gigs! I really love reading all your blogs guys, just keep it up! Yesterday, I went to my daughter’s school because it’s her recognition day and I’m a proud mom because she’s on top 5 in grade 1.
Well at least you do get your share of fun despite the very busy schedule you keep. That is important, I must say, to know how to put a little fun even if we are compelled to earn a living.
I’m so jealous that you got to meet Mackenzie! I’m sure it was awesome.
Good job putting $1,206 towards your student loans also 🙂
Seems to be a fine line managing a lot of stuff on the side and not wearing yourself out. Glad you survived and got to throw some money at your debt. 😀
Sounds like you’ve super busy lately! Go on with your hustlin’ self! But definitely enjoy the upcoming break time you have – we don’t want you to burn out 🙂
I’ve been real close to burn out — so I’m taking on less in April, and focusing on other things that seem to be worth my time. Also, practicing self-care.
Congrats on putting $1200 towards your debt Melanie! That’s so awesome pawsome. 🙂 Taking the weekend off to go wine tasting sounds lovely. Enjoy!
Thanks, Girl! I am so excited for wine, I’m counting down the days. Having two days off in a row will be FANtabulous.
Great job for March! My side hustles have been picking up, work hours increased and while my schedule doesn’t seem quite as busy as yours, I sometimes feel like I’m running around all frantic that I’ve forgotten something. My memory has been horrible lately.
I’m so proud of you girl. You’ve come so far in the past year. My memory, perception and attitude have been off lately. We need more sleep amidst the hustling!
Wow, sounds like March was a good month for you! Great job with the side hustling. I’m still looking for one. 😛
You can read all about my March progress and April plans here:
http://ginamarierose.com/2014/03/31/debt-repayment-update-march/
March was the best so far. I can only keep hoping it will go up, but also realize I need a break 🙂 you will find a side hustle, just figure out what you want.
Yay, congrats on the freelancing gigs and the part-time job! I’m glad to hear that you’re able to pick and choose the types of side hustles that work best for your schedule… and sanity!… now! You deserve this, Melanie, so very happy for you. Congrats, too, on the great repayment! So jealous you got to meet Mackenzie, I’m hoping to meet her as well before she leaves SoCal! 🙂
Yes! It’s great and I’m excited for more opportunities. It makes things feel more fluid. You really need to meet Mackenzie….and possibly her little girl, who is the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.
You’re amazing, seriously. I’m in awe every time you tell us about your schedule. Craziness, but worth it! That’s great you were able to get your boyfriend in on some of the gigs. I imagine that makes it a bit more enjoyable! Also awesome that you have some writing gigs lined up. I’m sure April will be great for you, and way to go on the $1.2k payment!
Haha I don’t know about that. I’m just persistent. I’m happy I could get the boo some more work, as he needed it (being in between gigs as a musician). I’m very happy about writing more and hoping to slice off more debt.
You rocked this month with the side hustling! That is so awesome 🙂 I am glad though, that you are going to take some time for you and go wine-tasting; you gotta have a bit of fun thrown in for good measure 😉
I’m so glad we got to meet Melanie. You have such a wonderful spirit and I look forward to us hanging out more! XO
Thanks girl! I loved meeting you — you are such a wonderful person and can’t wait for more time together! Woo hoo, blog buddy time.
I feel you on the unexpected bills. My wife and I had to put a thermal expansion tank on our water heater in March. $1200 towards your loans is awesome!
Oh, that sucks! Thanks for stopping by and the encouragement.
Paying $1206 on your debt is awesome! I hope this month you follow through and take some time off….you deserve it.
That’s fantastic about your side hustle income Melanie! You’re doing great! Really glad you managed to get some freelance writing jobs that you can do from home too. My side hustles have been going ok…. but I really want to ramp them up.
Starting in May, I’m going to focus more on online money-making efforts. As I bike, or take the bus everywhere, it really helps to work from home. I am hoping it continues and I can flourish. I know you will do a great job and can do it too!
Good for you for knowing your limit! I’m all about the money myself, but there is a point where all the money in the world can’t buy me a nice night’s sleep and a homemade meal! I’m looking forward to April in that I start a new job and my current job becomes a side hustle. We will see how it all works out!
I hear that! I realized there is no product or amount of money in the world that wipes away exhaustion. Congrats on the new job. That’s exciting.
Yay, Melanie!!! Way to go on the side hustle income and on putting so much toward your loans! You’ll be debt free in no time. 🙂
It will still be a few years, but I’m plugging away. It’s the slow and steady track. Thanks for the encouragement, dear!
Great job! March was marginally successful for me and I don’t think April will be better. I am looking forward to May and beyond. I hope you enjoy your weekend off. I am also taking a whole weekend off in April for no big purpose, other than it’s my birthday and all I want to do it relax. I am so excited!
Happy Birthday!! You deserve a break and some fun.
Nearly 800$ in side hustle income is pretty great, although, I have to say I am pleased that you have decided to slow down a little and enjoy your free time! Your weekend getaway plan sounds lovely and I am sure you will enjoy it a lot! Congrats on throwing quite a bit of cash on your debt, you’re doing great Melanie!
It feels good, but I also do kinda wish I made more for working all the time. I’m glad for a break this month and slowing down a bit. I’m not doing as well as you, but you are a great inspiration 🙂
Taking on side gigs is awesome, but not at the expense of burning out and not taking good care of yourself, so I’m glad you found some new gigs!! Have fun wine tasting…one of my favorite activities. 🙂
For realz. I am going to write a post soon about that. It really isn’t worth it at that point. Next time you come to Portland, let’s go wine tasting!
Woah – way to hustle! That’s a great side income… although 4 am weekends to 7 am starts on weekdays is definitely rough. I’m not sure how long I could keep up something like that. Good luck through April and I hope that wine tasting is awesome!
Yeah, it’s been rough. But the money has helped! 10 more days till wine tasting. Not that I’m counting 🙂
That is awesome! A side gig and putting $1206 towards student loan debt. Congratulations are certainly in order!
Thank you! 🙂 It feels nice to be making good side income. Hopefully it continues.
I certainly forgive you for not being around lately, you’ve been working really hard. With debt payments like that it’ll be gone before you know it – but don’t forget to take a break every now and then 🙂
Thank you! 🙂 It’ll still be a while, but will get where I need to go. I’m taking more breaks and enjoying the simple things.
Really considering freelance but have so many financial commitments… what would you recommend is the main thing to consider when starting out?
Good job on getting at your loan.
Hmm, now what does a tax attorney have to look forward to in April. Man, I cannot wait until April 15. It is always hard getting everyone done and having heart palpitations waiting for some of my people sending me their stuff on April 11. So it will be nice to get my life back!