Buy Your Freedom: Earn More

Is money preventing you from quitting your day job to pursue your dream full time? If so, then welcome to the Buy Your Freedom mini-series.

Did you know that there are three simple actions you can take right now that will allow you to save the money you need to pursue your dreams? It’s true! And we’re discussing all three. The first was: spend less. The second is: earn more. It’s not easy spending less, even when it comes to everyday necessities but it can be done. By doing a little research before making a purchase or even using a resource like Raise to find discount codes or offers can help save money that can then be put towards your dreams. Once you have figured out step 1, you can then start working towards step 2.

Action#2: Earn More

Think of earning more not as it relates to your day job (because, short of asking for a raise, you’re probably locked into a pretty structured compensation model) but how it relates to your passion. For example, if writing is your passion there is a world of opportunity for you to earn more by freelancing, writing articles, developing copy and more. And keeping track of all the money going in and out with a blank invoice template will be a big help for many. The same goes for fine arts, there are many people looking for artists to paint portraits, hand craft wedding gowns, and photograph special events. If animals are your passion, you can earn more by walking dogs, grooming horses, offering obedience classes. Think creatively about how you can mold your passion into an additional income stream for yourself. Not only will this allow you to save money and buy your freedom quicker, it will give you valuable experience in your dream field.

Not sure how you can generate income from your passion? Brainstorm around these questions:

• What aspects of your day job do you most excel at and/or most enjoy (e.g. creating marketing plans, financial forecasting, working with balance sheets, managing people, organizing processes, giving presentations)?
• Is there a need for these skills in an area related to your passion?

For example, if you’re passionate about fashion but you work in public relations, why not take a stab at freelance fashion writing? Or, let’s say you’re a skilled organizer, why not offer merchandise and paperwork organization to some local boutiques?

There are a zillion opportunities to earn more if you just think creatively. The key is to figure out where your dreams and your skills intersect. And just think, by setting up an additional income stream before you leave your day job, you’ll ease the financial burden when you finally do quit.

How can your passion help you earn more?

Check back tomorrow for Action#3 in the Buy Your Freedom mini-series.