Being self-employed is not just for people who love to work at home. It’s also an option for those who want the freedom to pursue their passion while making money at the same time. Being your own boss has many benefits. Among them include the ability to set your own hours, choose what projects you want to take on, and decide how much money you want to make. But there are also some downsides. The gig economy and home-based businesses are still on the rise, so here’s what you need to know.
Rise in Self-Employment and Gig Jobs
Over the past several years, more people than ever are becoming self-employed. They want more financial and time freedom that they can’t get otherwise. Additionally, many self-employed people represent those working a second job outside of their 9-5. They want a fallback in the event of a layoff or other economic downturn that impacts their primary income.
Demographics are also a big factor. Baby boomers who have already retired or expect to retire within five years make up a large percentage of today’s workforce and are more likely than previous generations to be self-employed.
Another major contributor is technology—especially for those who want to work from home. Technology makes it easier than ever before for anyone with an internet connection and some basic knowledge to start their own business without having to go through traditional channels like renting office space or hiring staff members.
Additionally, some individuals look for drop shipping and other automated businesses to supplement their income. They use the best Amazon seller tools to maximize their time and their income. Many of them may leverage their expertise to freelance outside of their normal working hours.
Why Choose a Home Business or Gig?
The gig economy is on the rise, and it’s not hard to understand why. With job security, benefits, and vacation time becoming rarer in today’s world of work; flexibility, income growth, and opportunity for advancement have become the norm. Basically, people are looking for more control over their careers, their lives, and how they spend their time. There is no better way than to become self-employed or start a home-based business. These ventures can provide the cash needed to save for retirement, take vacations, or simply live with a bigger buffer. Choosing a home-based business can be simple if you already have the skills and equipment.
Many Different Kinds of People are Self-Employed
Studies show that there is no one type of person who works for themselves. You can be a stay-at-home parent, retired, or just looking to make some extra cash. Many people work from home, while others may choose to work remotely from a public place like a coffee shop.
Home Businesses are Often a Passion Project
When a career is no longer satisfying to the soul, some people start to look at their options. Many turn to something they were once passionate about but let fall to the wayside. You’ll find people becoming life coaches, opening a boutique, selling online, and so much more. Some will even freelance to gain more experience using newer skills. While there are many gigs out there like Uber and DoorDash, they only represent a fraction of the freelance gigs that people are pursuing.
In order to be an entrepreneur, you don’t have to be a genius. You just need some talent and passion. This can be hard for many people because they think they aren’t smart enough or don’t have enough knowledge, but the truth is, what you know now and know how to do is enough to get started on many home business opportunities.
The Stigma Surrounding Home-Based Jobs is Fading
The stigma surrounding home-based jobs is fading rapidly. Nowadays, the idea of working from home is less like something your mom would do if she was looking for a part-time gig and more like a legitimate career path. In fact, many companies don’t offer an office at all. Some software companies now rely on 100% remote workers. This shift could mean big things for those who want to start their own businesses from home.
It’s easier than ever now to live anywhere without sacrificing your ability to make money or take on projects independently. Because you’re not tied down by physical location or time constraints imposed by employers and clients, you can take advantage of opportunities offered by emerging technologies such as crowdsourcing sites like Upwork to get your foot in the door. Working from home or doing a gig is a great way to make extra cash and try out a career field you might want to pursue.
