How to Build a Profitable Side Business Without Burning Out, Even if You’re Working Full-Time
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Hey Friends,
Today's manifesto is for all my multi-tasking mavens out there, those who dream of creating a side business while still clocking in that 9-to-5. Whether you’re after some extra cash or secretly plotting your great escape from cubicle life, know this: it’s possible to build a profitable side hustle without reaching burnout levels typically reserved for marathon runners and overworked coffee machines. But…you’ll need some clever strategies—and maybe a sense of humor!
Let’s break it down into actionable steps (plus a few laughs along the way).
1. Get Crystal Clear on Your “Why” (AKA, Your Business Plan)
Building a business on the side is no joke. Before you even think about logos or social media handles, figure out your "why." Maybe it’s financial freedom, maybe it’s creating something that lights you up, or maybe you just want to stop picturing your boss every time someone says "villain origin story."
For me, my "why" was rooted in creating something that moved at my own pace. No deadlines, no boss breathing down my neck, just The Pleasure and Peace Manifestos where I could connect, create, and, yes, actually enjoy the work. When the going got tough, this "why" kept me grounded.
2. Draw a Firm Line in Your Schedule (and Guard It Like Your Netflix Queue)
If you’re working a full-time job and running a side business, time management is your BFF. But here’s the thing: you can’t let your side hustle bleed into every free second you have. Otherwise, you'll be pouring coffee into your cereal at 6 a.m. while trying to write blog posts before sunrise. Trust me—don’t go there.
Set specific hours, whether it’s early mornings, lunch breaks, or weekends. And treat this time like gold. For me, mornings are my sacred hustle hours. I get up, sip my coffee on my couch or balcony, gazing at the water as the moonlight hits the pond, and tackle my projects before the world wakes up. My neighbors may think I’m part of the Witness Protection Program, but hey, it works.
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3. Focus on Tasks That Actually Matter (Yes, Even if They’re Not as Fun)
Here’s the real tea: busy work is a trap. Avoid spending two hours designing the perfect Canva graphic when you could be working on things that make real progress—like creating content, building your audience, or, you know, actually making money.
So before diving into the “fun stuff” like choosing color schemes and fonts, ask yourself, “Will this bring me closer to my desires?” Focus on actions that align with your vision and resonate with your values. When I started, I centered my energy on creating impactful blog posts and growing The Pleasure and Peace Portal to connect with others who shared my passions. No glitter graphics necessary.
4. Start Simple (Because Trying to Do Everything on Day 1 Is a Recipe for Chaos)
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a side business. You don’t need a fancy website, five social media accounts, and a list of services longer than a CVS receipt. Start small. If you can launch with a simple blog or social media account, you’re golden. Let things grow organically.
When I launched The Pleasure and Peace Manifestos, it was just a blog. No membership, no store, no juggling act. Just my words, connecting with readers. Eventually, I added The Pleasure and Peace Portal and more. Keeping things simple at first saved my sanity—and a lot of caffeine.
5. Self-Care Is Not Optional (And Neither Are Mid-Day Dance Breaks)
You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s the secret weapon for avoiding burnout. Building a business alongside a full-time job is double-duty. Treat yourself like the MVP you are. Do something simple every day to recharge—whether it’s stretching, journaling, or having a totally necessary 20-minute YouTube break for "research" (we’ve all been there).
My go-to is a nightly wind-down routine. I light a candle, stretch, and sip on a warm drink before bed. Sometimes, I even pop outside to enjoy the view from my balcony, where the pond makes me feel like a zen goddess of productivity. Find your recharge ritual—bonus points if it’s easy and actually enjoyable.
6. Remember: It’s a Journey, Not a Netflix Binge (You Can’t Finish It All in One Night)
Having a side business is one thing; actually enjoying the journey? That’s another story. Don’t let the pressure of “getting it done” steal the joy. Celebrate those small wins, even if it’s just getting your first email subscriber or hitting "publish" on a blog post. It’s all part of the fun.
When I started creating workbooks and affirmations, each piece was a labor of love. And you know what? I found pleasure in it. Each new member to The Pleasure and Peace Portal, every little sale—it was a reason to celebrate. Trust the process, and remember that every step forward is progress.
7. Lean Into Your Feminine Energy (and Not Just the ‘Hustle’ Energy)
This one’s a game-changer. Side hustles don’t have to look like constant hustle and grind. Tap into that feminine flow—your intuition, your inner peace. Not every task has to be “go, go, go.” Sometimes, the best approach is to sit back, tune in, and let your intuition guide your next steps.
For me, working from a space of flow rather than pressure has been huge. Instead of forcing blog posts, I let ideas come when they’re ready. Instead of sweating every decision, I give myself permission to go with what feels right. And it’s led to more authentic content, stronger connections, and a lot less hair-pulling.
8. Outsource Like a Boss (Or Use Automation and Pretend You’re One)
Let’s face it: you don’t need to be doing everything yourself. Whether it’s hiring help or using automated tools, give yourself the gift of delegation. I eventually hired someone to help with my Pinterest posts, freeing me up to focus on what I love—creating content and growing The Pleasure and Peace Portal.
If hiring isn’t in the budget, explore tools like social media schedulers and email automation. It’s like having an assistant (minus the HR paperwork). Automate where you can, so you can actually have a life outside work.
9. Join a Supportive Community (Because You Deserve to Have Friends Who “Get It”)
When you’re burning the candle at both ends, you need a crew who understands the hustle. Surround yourself with like-minded people, whether it’s a mastermind group, a Facebook community, or just a friend who knows what a “launch week” really entails. Having a support system will make the journey a lot less lonely—and a lot more fun.
In my own Manifest That Shift Facebook group, we share wins, struggles, and sometimes just a funny meme to lighten the mood. Find your people, because no one can thrive in isolation (and, honestly, talking to your cat about ROI has its limits).
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10. Celebrate Every Win (Yes, Even That One Follower Who’s Probably Your Mom)
Here’s a secret: celebrating small wins gives you the fuel to keep going. Don’t wait for that “big success moment.” Celebrate each new step—whether it’s your first subscriber, your first sale, or finally setting up that email list (which you’ve totally been meaning to do for three weeks).
When The Pleasure and Peace Portal got its first member, I may or may not have done a little dance. Every tiny win, every small step, is part of your journey. Savor it, because building a business is a marathon, not a sprint (unless you’re in the mood for a victory lap, in which case, sprint away!).
In Closing
Building a side business with a full-time job isn’t a walk in the park. It’s more like a balancing act, but with a good mix of humor, self-care, and strategy, it’s totally doable. So, if you’re ready to take that leap, remember these steps, laugh a little, and keep moving toward your dream with peace and pleasure.
Live Pleasurably,
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