Okay, let’s get real for a second. Who else has dreamed of ditching the 9-to-5 grind, working from a cozy café in Paris, or maybe even a beach in Bali? 🙋‍♀️ Yeah, me too. But here’s the thing: it’s not just a dream anymore. I’ve been living the “work from anywhere” life for the past two years, and let me tell you, it’s as amazing as it sounds—but it’s also a lot of work. Today, I’m spilling all the tea on how I made it happen, plus how I built a side hustle that’s now paying for my avocado toast (and then some).
First off, let’s talk about remote work. It’s not just about working in your pajamas (though that’s a major perk). It’s about freedom, flexibility, and finding a balance that works for YOU. When I first started working remotely, I thought it would be a breeze. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. I quickly realized that without the structure of an office, I was either overworking or procrastinating like crazy. Sound familiar?
So, here’s what I did: I created a routine that mimics the structure of an office but with my own twist. I wake up at the same time every day (okay, most days), get dressed (yes, even if I’m just moving from my bed to my desk), and set clear boundaries for work hours. I also invested in a good desk setup because, let’s be honest, working from your couch is a one-way ticket to back pain.
But the real game-changer? Finding my “why.” Why was I working remotely? For me, it was about traveling more and spending time with my family. Knowing my “why” kept me motivated when things got tough. And trust me, they will. Like that time I tried to work from a hostel in Thailand and the Wi-Fi was slower than a snail on a coffee break. 🐌
Now, let’s talk side hustles. Because let’s face it, remote work is great, but having multiple streams of income? That’s the real flex. My side hustle started as a passion project—a blog about sustainable living. At first, it was just a hobby, but then I realized I could monetize it. I started with affiliate marketing, then added sponsored posts, and eventually launched my own digital product.
Here’s the thing about side hustles: they take time. You’re not going to make a million dollars overnight (sorry to burst your bubble). But if you’re consistent and passionate, they can grow into something incredible. My advice? Start small, focus on something you love, and don’t be afraid to pivot if something isn’t working.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of community. When you’re working remotely or building a side hustle, it can feel isolating. That’s why I joined online communities of like-minded women who are also navigating this lifestyle. It’s been a game-changer for my mental health and my business.
And let’s not forget about self-care. Working from anywhere can blur the lines between work and life, so it’s crucial to set boundaries. For me, that means no emails after 7 PM, regular exercise, and taking time off when I need it. Because let’s be real, burnout is not cute.
So, what’s the secret to mastering remote work and building a successful side hustle? It’s a mix of discipline, passion, and a whole lot of trial and error. It’s not always glamorous, but it’s 100% worth it.
If you’re thinking about taking the leap, my advice is simple: start. Start small, start messy, but just start. You’ve got this, babe. 💪