Hey Taylor – I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for a few years and I’m getting the itch to do more and pad our earnings a little. I don’t think I’m ready for a full-time job and I still have a three-year-old at home most of the time—what are my options as far as side hustles that don’t take me out of the house? – Eleanor
Hey Eleanor – One of the best things about a stay-at-home side hustle is that it forces people to get creative and, in a lot of cases, allows people to turn a passion into a career. There are a lot of variables and things to consider in this arena, so let’s consider the big picture and then I’ll let you figure out the specifics.
–1. Upfront investment. If you have the means, your passive income can work like any other investment. Whether it’s buying the equipment to print your own T-shirt designs or investing in a rental property, spending money is often the quickest way to make money. Don’t choose this option if you’re on the fence or not in a financial place to do so, but it’s worth considering if you have money in savings that isn’t doing any work. With a chunk of cash and some part-time effort, you could generate a significant amount of monthly revenue. A lot of people overlook the rental property as a side hustle since it’s a big commitment right out the gate, but it’s one of the best money generators out there.
–2. Use your training. What did you go to school for, or what was your last job? Start by thinking about your professional skillset instead of researching side hustles that have worked for other people. If you have a marketable skill, there’s a work-from-home version of that career. Here in 2025, working from home is more the rule than the exception; check job boards for whatever type of work you’re most qualified to do and see what’s available. Even if you were a firefighter, or worked at a hatchery, or some other very on-location job, there’s writing and advising work available in pretty much every field. If you’re able to lean on your resume, the job search will be that much easier.
–3. Market your passion. My favorite thing about a side hustle is when people start with something they love, find a way to make a little extra money doing that thing, and then find a full-time career that’s incredibly fulfilling. Since you’re starting from square one, this is a great opportunity to do something that speaks to you. Writing, cooking, crafting, educating—what would you want to spend your time doing if you weren’t trying to make money? With all of the internet and social media at your disposal for marketing, you really can turn anything into a career if you work hard at it.
If I can give one piece of advice that sticks, it’s to not put too much pressure on yourself to make money in a hurry. If you start slowly you can turn this side hustle into something you really enjoy doing without burning out. Good luck!
TAYLOR J KOVAR
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
