There was no way I was gonna put a dent in my debt by continuing to work that one good paying job that I had. I was maxed out. And I wasn't about ready to change my lifestyle yet.

So I picked up two part time jobs. Valeting and waiting tables at a bar. I figured I could drive some cool cars and meet some people at the bar.

Other than more money to pay off my debt, two things came out of it: One, I lost weight from running all night while valeting and two, I realized men make way less than women as a waiter or waitress at the bar 🤣.

Every single penny from those 2 jobs went to pay off my debt. And yes I got pennies for tip :( 

Why Extra Income is More Than Money

When you’re in debt, it feels like your whole life is put on pause. And cutting expenses only goes so far... you can’t cut your way to freedom forever. At some point, you have to out-earn the problem.

That’s what side work does. It’s not just cash... it’s momentum. It’s seeing balances drop faster. It’s watching your credit utilization improve. It’s showing yourself that you can move the needle when it feels stuck.

And that shift? That’s priceless.

Extra Income in The Real World

Here are some ways people make it happen (and what it feels like)...

Driving or Delivering
I talk to Uber drivers. And they love it. It turned out to be a side hustle that ended up becoming their primary job.

Freelancing Your Skills
A friend of mine built websites on weekends. She told me it wasn’t just money... it reminded her she had value outside of her day job.

Weekend Jobs
Waiting tables brought me humility. But it also brought me tips that stacked up faster than I expected. I did have some good days. 😊

Selling What You Don’t Use
One of the easiest wins? Selling clutter. Don’t just free up space... Free up debt.

The key is... don’t let side income inflate your lifestyle. Make debt the only target.

The Deeper Shift

Ask yourself...

 

What would working an extra 5 - 10 hours a week be worth to me if it meant I could be debt-free years sooner?

Do I see side work as punishment or as proof that I’m stronger than my circumstances?

Am I willing to trade short-term comfort for long-term freedom?

Because this isn’t just about money. It’s about identity. Every side hustle dollar tells the story... I’m not staying stuck.

Cruise on The Weekends

I did this for a month and made over 300 for a few trips over the weekend. I'm sure you got a Walmart near you... you have to try

The Spark Driver App

Unemployment Benefits... File ASAP with your state’s unemployment office.

Community Resources... Local nonprofits and churches often offer rent/utility support.

When I look back, I don’t remember the exhaustion as much as I remember the wins. I remember watching my balance drop by hundreds, then thousands. I remember the weight lifting off my shoulders and seeing what else changed in my life: my health, circle of friends and opportunities.

Good things come from putting in the extra work. 😉

Until next week,

Disclaimer: Guide to Perfect Credit and Credit Coach Rob provide financial education and coaching based on personal experience and research. We are not licensed financial advisors, accountants, or attorneys. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult with a certified professional for your specific situation.

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