In late December, 2024, I read that Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made her Broadway debut in a one-night-only walk-on role in the hit jukebox musical & Juliet. No surprise, theatre attendees shared their gratitude with a standing ovation. And similar to when she took her seat on the Supreme Court, Justice Brown became the first Supreme Court Justice to appear in a Broadway production. Another lifetime dream of hers, fulfilled.
While not a real side hustle, Justice Brown shifted her energy and time, if only for one night, into a passion she’d had since being a little girl. This made me think about how often we get going in our careers and leave behind some things that once gave us great joy, and that could become a side hustle, if only we had the time and energy to revisit them.
In it’s truest sense, a side hustle should bring in some money! A friend of mine started working at the front desk of a premier hotel that gives her discounts when she travels. Discounts are good and if you think about it, it kind of represents another form of income!
Or, maybe you left your artistic nature behind years ago. Could your pottery or jewelry sell at a local farmer’s market or online? Might your paintings or hand made greeting cards be well-received by more than family or friends. Is that guitar in the corner worth an income if you dared to join a band or even do some solo gigs?
Now, remember that this is a 2-word drill. Side. Hustle. Just because you love it doesn’t mean you won’t have to hustle for and about it. I know for sure that if it’s something you love, the hustle won’t feel like work! And who knows? Maybe your side hustle will become your main hustle. Imagine that!?!
As your weeks, months, and years go by in 8-hour chunks, what in your life requires a little dusting off in a way that not only brings you joy, but some cash on the side?