How I Earned Over $30,000 from My Side Jobs This Year

As someone who's balanced roles in the tech sales world and pursued writing and teaching as additional ventures, I managed to earn more than $30,000 from these side pursuits. Although the financial rewards are appealing, the effort required has felt relentless.

My academic background is in journalism, but my career began in tech sales, where over 17 years, I climbed from an entry-level cold-calling position to become a Director of Sales. After starting a family, I longed for a creative outlet and began writing again in 2024.

Initially, my writing projects were not driven by a profit motive. They started as unpaid entries for a parenting site until an editor encouraged me to consider freelancing, which led to my first earnings of $8,995 in 2024.

Boost in Freelance Income

The subsequent year, 2025, saw a surge in my freelance efforts, culminating in earnings of $30,411. Additionally, instructing American mahjong contributed another $2,902. Altogether, these side jobs pulled in just above $33,000 before tax deductions.

Despite my passion for these pursuits, maintaining them has required considerable personal sacrifices. Balancing them with other responsibilities leaves me questioning their long-term sustainability.

Side Income Considerations

The added income is appreciated, yet freelancing carries higher tax obligations than traditional employment. Freelancers must cover their Social Security and Medicare contributions, typically managed by employers. Despite these expenses, I anticipate netting nearly $20,000 from my side projects in 2025.

These additional earnings aren't necessary for my family's financial stability; our primary jobs secure that. Instead, I indulge in these activities from genuine interest.

Fun with Side Hustle Earnings

I view the money from these jobs as discretionary funds, guilt-free for personal indulgences like fitness classes, updated wardrobes, or trips with friends. It’s fulfilling to see how rewarding the extra work can be.

Balancing Freelance and Mahjong Lessons

Working through a local mahjong group, I bypass marketing duties, joining lessons at my preference. However, the freelance domain demands proactive engagement, akin to sales cold calls.

A rigorous routine in 2025 involved drafting at least two pitches daily. Idea generation, sourcing, and editor communication were all part of the dedication that achieved 19 published articles over the year. It’s rewarding, yet taxing work.

The Challenge of Finding Time to Unwind

Juggling around three writing assignments with weekly mahjong lessons, my schedule revolved around early mornings and evenings. Writing took place before dawn and after my children’s bedtime. Daytime hours often doubled as interview slots.

Most mahjong classes occur post-business hours, involving a three-hour investment including travel and preparation. Structuring my day leaves limited space for relaxation or social interaction.

Striving for Better Balance in 2026

The realization has dawned: while side income is incredible, safeguarding my leisure time is essential as I move into 2026. My commitment to writing and teaching remains, but overexerting isn’t viable.

Enhancing my management skills in 2025 led to a reassessment of priorities, ensuring timely completion of tasks. As I look forward, my aim is a reduced workload to enhance time with loved ones, accepting that less financial gain is a worthwhile trade for improved life balance.