I got six jobs, I don't get tired!
While I love this song by Kevin Gates, I don't care what he says, it doesn't matter if you are juggling two, three, four, or six jobs, you can get tired.
Tired physically, emotionally, and intellectually.
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Managing more than one job will test your patience and confidence, but it is definitely possible. While I'm not sure about the six jobs thing that Kevin Gates talks about (like really, who has time to work six jobs), I do think that having multiple jobs is possible.
When you work more than one job, be prepared to put in more than 40 hours a week, and see the financial gains as well. Sometimes depending on onesource of income doesn't cut it, and you also may see the value in having multiple sources of income.
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Working multiple jobs and having more than one source of income is very common. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, about 7 to 8 million of Americans (about 5% percent of all workers) work multiple jobs. Some people do it because of financial reasons, some people do it to gain experiences in another industry or field, and some people do it to live out their passion because their 9-5 won't allow them to do it. Nonetheless, people are looking for more ways to sustain their lifestyle, make more money, and work in industries that they are passionate about.
Recently, Drake spoke of his previous acting career, and claimed that he was forced to choose between acting and music. As you may know, Drake was an actor on Degrassi: The Next Generation, and during his acting years he had a passion for music. While acting, Drake was also in the studio, and he told W Magazine, “That was part of the reason I was kicked off the show."
He continued by saying, "Back then, I'd spend a full day on set and then go to the studio to make music until 4 or 5 a.m. I'd sleep in my dressing room and then be in front of the cameras again by 9 a.m. Eventually, they realized I was juggling two professions and told me I had to choose. I chose this life." In the interview, Drake also told the magazine, “I can't wait to get back into acting. No one ever asks me to do movies, and, although music is my focal point now, I'd love to do a film. That was the life that I lived before, and it would be interesting to live it again."
Despite the naysayers, Drake proved that you can juggle more than one job at once, but you have to be willing to put in the extra work. Although Drake wasn't able to continue his acting career with Degrassi, I learned a valuable lesson from his experience: Never let someone tell you that you can't do more than one thing at once.
[Tweet "You have to be willing to put in the extra work."]
For some aspiring entrepreneurs, we sometimes let go of our dreams because of what other people think, to make other people happy, or because we lack in other areas like time management, organization, and prioritizing. But having more than one hustle is definitely possible, and a smart way to make more cash - who doesn't love more money anyway? Working more than one job means early mornings, late nights, and a multitude of diverse responsibilities, so sometimes it is hard to maintain balance, your sanity, and commitment to each job.
Before you lose your mind or say to hell with your other side hustles, I recommend that you consider my 6 tips on managing multiple jobs.
1.Plan your week ahead of time
Every Sunday before you go to sleep, figure out the big picture for each job and what you need to accomplish for each that week. Set priorities and make a realistic schedule, and set reminders for yourself as well. For example, there are a multitude of things that I use to stay organized. I have a paper planner that I use so that I don't put myself in a position where I have too many things going on at once. I utilize my Google and iPhone calendar heavily to jot down any meetings that I have or when I will work on certain things. I even have my meals and workouts planned for the week as well. I schedule what days I will go out for a run and decide if I will do a morning jog or evening jog. I even plan out what days I can go to the gym and schedule how much time I will spend there.
[Related: Things to Do On A Sunday Night For A Better Monday Morning]
Between my planner and my calendar apps, I am able to stay organized without feeling and looking like #teamnosleep. Having under-eye bags is not cute, and being overly tired doesn't benefit you or your many jobs. Not only are you tired, but you are less productive, less organized, and the work that you put out may not be as great. Planning your week ahead of time will help you work smarter, not harder.
[Related: 4 Productivity Apps To Help You Get Ish Done]
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2.Be selective
When you are looking for ways to make extra money, try to find something that can further develop you. I don't recommend working three or four jobs that you are not passionate about and that you don't have an interest in. There is no point in putting your time and energy in work that you don't like. Now I understand that you may have multiple jobs because you need extra money. Even if you are not able to work in your desired field at your second job, find a way to learn valuable skills that can be transferable. For example, if you want to be a journalist, it may be hard to automatically get a writing gig at Ebony or People magazine. As a result, try to become a blogger for a smaller magazine or website to get your name out there and a portfolio. Although you are not living out your dream job, you are building the necessary skills that a journalist should have.
3. Don't spend all of your extra money
More jobs mean more cash. This means that you can save more, and invest in something. Your second job shouldn't mean that you can now go and out buy the red bottoms that you want, or swipe your card at stores that you wouldn't dare walk in when you were balling on a budget. I am not saying that you shouldn't reward yourself, but I am telling you that you shouldn't go crazy with your spending. When you start receiving those extra checks, make a plan to pay your bills, put a certain percentage in your savings, and then a little to yourself.
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4. Be honest with your bosses
When you have more than one job, there will be times when you may need a more flexible schedule. Be honest with all of your bosses and let them know what is going on. Although you used to be able to work a ton of overtime at your first company, you probably can't afford to do that now since you have another job. The idea of managing more than one job means that you need to be honest with yourself and figure out how much you can give to each job. When I first ventured out as a blogger, I told my boss about it. I wanted her to be aware for scheduling reasons and for other functions at work that I would normally partake in when I had the extra time.
[Related: If You're Not Spending Time With Your Boss, You Could Be Missing Out On Your Next Career Opportunity]
5. Don't forget to take care of you as well
As I mentioned earlier, when you work more than one job, you run into the possibility of getting tired. Being tired is normal, but you never want to put yourself in the position where you are burnt out. Take out time for yourself to do things that you like to do and learn how to unwind. For me, having a glass of Merlot while watching Scandal and polishing my nails helps me unwind (sometimes I even bring out my foot massager, some lemons, and essential oils and give myself an AMAZING pedicure - nail shop who?). I don't watch much TV, but I haveto have my Scandal fix every Thursday.
On the same note, you should also find time to be physically active and to eat healthy. Having a healthy diet will give you the energy and nutrients that you need to be successful. For me, cooking is also relaxing. I try to find time at least once a week to throw down in the kitchen making my Pinterest faves.
Last but not least, find time to SLEEP. Getting your beauty rest is important and during this time you are giving your mind and body a chance to just chill out.
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6. Know when you should say 'no'
When I first gained an interest in writing, I joined too many teams. I was writing different posts for several sites, my own personal site, and on top of all of that I was in graduate school and working a full-time job. I was too insecure to let a job go because I didn't want to feel like a failure. There is a saying that God won't give you more than you can bear, but I also believe God gave you a sound mind to make wise decisions. Don't be crazy and overwork yourself to the point that you are burnt out and depressed. It's okay to say no, and not accept every opportunity that comes your way. Even more, it's okay to cut the cord on certain projects or jobs when it becomes too overwhelming.
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[Related: 6 Kick-Ass Career Lessons We Can Learn From Journalist Keli Goff]
Are you someone that works more than one job? Let us know how you stay organized and what you do to stop yourself from going crazy with a lot of work.
RELATED
Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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