When is writing a hobby versus a side job? It’s a question that comes up a lot, especially since so many people consider themselves to be both, simultaneously. It’s a common misconception that writing a book is the same as doing a hobby. While there are certain similarities between the two, in general, they are quite different. Let’s explore the differences and similarities between hobby and side gig so you can figure out what makes the two such appealing options for different individuals.
Differences
There are several key differences between a hobby and a side gig. One of the most prominent is that your side gig is not a hobby. A hobby is typically something that you do simply because you enjoy it. If a hobby is something you’re good at, you might consider doing it as a profession. For example, if you’re a great artist, you might consider showing your work for cash or prizes. In that case, your artwork would be your hobby and your job as a graphic artist might be your side gig. You do this simply for fun, since it’s not something you need to prepare for or pursue professionally.
A hobby is also something you do in your spare time. If you’re looking for income, your side gig has to be a paid activity. If you see yourself as a freelancer, hobbyist, or independent contractor, then your side gig is your primary economic activity. If you see yourself as an employee, then your hobby may be a side job which you do in addition to your full-time employment. In any case, your hobby does not entail any type of obligation or responsibility towards your employer.
Hobbies are generally seen as a way to unwind and get away from the responsibilities of everyday life. If you see yourself as an entrepreneur, then your hobby may be a great way to build your portfolio while having some fun and income diversification. In general, a hobby is seen as a low-stress, high-reward option that allows you to do something you enjoy, even if it’s something simple. This could be something as simple as collecting butterflies or seashells, or something more complex, such as creating a masterpiece.
Similarities
There are a number of similarities between a hobby and a side gig. In most cases, people who choose to freelance or work for themselves are attracted to both options for the same reasons. One of the most prominent similarities between the two is that you don’t need to prepare for either one. If you see yourself as an independent contractor or entrepreneur, then you don’t need to prepare to find work. You simply need to start marketing yourself to create a following or fanbase.
Depending on your expertise and the demand for your side gig, you may not need to prepare for the gig either. If you’re a writer and you see yourself as an authority on your subject matter, then you don’t necessarily need to prepare to become a freelancer, since you can readily find work as a paid content creator. If you see yourself as an artist or designer, then you may not need to prepare to become a freelancer or independent contractor, since you can gainfully market your artwork or designs as a business entity.
Hobbies and side gigs can be great options for those interested in freelance work or working independently. If you see yourself as a freelancer, then your hobbies may be a great source of income, even if it’s not your main source of income. If you see yourself as an employee, then your hobbies may be a way to earn extra money on the side or during your free time. Many prominent entrepreneurs and indie game developers earn a significant part of their income from their hobby, usually trading their time for money, rather than the other way around.
Attractiveness
Let’s examine the attractiveness of a hobby versus a side gig. First of all, the question is ambiguous. Is the attraction based on the income opportunity or the actual activity of doing the hobby? When we think about the appeal of a hobby, we usually think about the income opportunity, especially since it’s typically seen as a way to earn more money, do something you enjoy, and have a low-stress lifestyle. These are all very attractive factors in isolation.
If we look at the actual activity of doing the hobby, we find that it can be very engaging. It’s a common misconception that you need to be doing something to find enjoyment in life. You can have plenty of fun and fulfillment from the simple act of engaging in a hobby, even if it’s not something that you do for a living. It’s not unusual for people to have a hobby that they find extremely satisfying and engaging, even if it’s something small, such as collecting butterflies or seashells.
If we compare the appeal of a hobby to that of a side gig, we find that the former often has an appeal that is independent of its income potential. In contrast, the latter usually has an appeal that is directly related to its potential to earn money. This is due primarily to the fact that many people see side gigs as a way to earn extra cash while also having fun. If we take a step back and look at the big picture, then we see that a hobby, generally speaking, has a great deal of appeal, regardless of whether it has significant earnings potential or not. This is because it allows you to have a life that is dedicated to something you find interesting and rewarding, rather than just something you need to do to make money.