Introduction
In today's fast-paced world, women on the menopause journey often find themselves at a crossroads, balancing career aspirations with the challenges of hormonal changes.But what if you could turn this challenging time into an opportunity to create a flexible, fulfilling life? Starting a side hustle could be the key to gaining financial independence, whether your dream is to leave the corporate grind behind or simply supplement your income.
Understanding the Menopause-Career Connection
Many women don’t realise the impact menopause can have on their careers and finances until they’re deep into it. Symptoms like brain fog, anxiety, hot flashes, and fatigue can make it difficult to function at full capacity in your traditional job setting.
In fact, research shows that many women start experiencing menopausal symptoms around the same time they are moving into management positions—typically after 40. The overlap between career growth and the onset of menopause can be a significant factor in why fewer women reach executive roles compared to men.
Without proper support, it’s no surprise that some women opt to leave the workforce altogether, change their career paths, or scale back on work. Unfortunately, these decisions can lead to a financial hit, making it harder to maintain the lifestyle you’ve worked so hard to build.
But here's the good news: A side hustle can offer the flexibility you need to manage menopausal symptoms while also securing your financial future. The Menopause journey, can bring a host of symptoms that impact daily life and career performance. From brain fog to anxiety and not to mention the physical discomfort to name but a few, these changes can be unpredictable and sometimes debilitating.
Why a Side Hustle is the Perfect Solution
A side hustle can provide the financial cushion and personal flexibility that many women in midlife are looking for. Whether you’re still in the workforce or considering stepping back, here are some reasons why a side hustle could be the perfect solution for you:
Flexibility: Menopause symptoms can be unpredictable. One day you may feel full of energy, and the next, you're exhausted. A side hustle allows you to work around your symptoms rather than be controlled by them.
Financial Independence: A side hustle gives you the chance to supplement your income, without relying solely on a traditional job that might be draining your energy. More financial independence can reduce stress and anxiety about the future.
Leverage Existing Skills: You’ve spent years building skills in your career—why not leverage those skills for a side hustle? Teaching, consulting, writing, or coaching are all viable options that allow you to turn your expertise into extra income.
Boost Confidence: Menopause can sometimes sap your confidence, especially if symptoms are affecting your work. Starting a side hustle can give you a new sense of purpose and accomplishment, which helps to boost self-esteem, improve your overall well-being by reducing stress and anxiety.
Personal Growth: Tap into your passions, skills, and experiences
How to Choose the Right Side Hustle
Choosing the right side hustle is all about matching your skills, interests, and lifestyle. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on the perfect side gig:
1. Start Small
Don’t feel pressured to dive headfirst into a new business. Many successful ventures start small and grow over time. The key is to choose something manageable that fits around your existing commitments and energy levels. For example, you could start with something simple like freelancing, tutoring, or selling products online.
2. Leverage Technology
We live in a digital world, and technology is your friend when it comes to side hustles. Platforms like Etsy, Fiverr, and Upwork make it easier than ever to sell your skills, whether it’s handmade goods, consulting services, or graphic design. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are also great tools for marketing your side hustle.
3. Use Your Existing Skills
If you’re already an expert in a particular field, use that to your advantage. For example, if you were a teacher, you could create online courses or educational content. If you have a knack for organisation, virtual assistant work might be a good fit. By focusing on skills you already have, you can avoid the need for extra training or education.
4.Set Clear, SMART Goals
Establish Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely objectives for your side hustle. This structured approach will help you stay focused and motivated.
Side Hustle Ideas for Menopausal Women
1. Digital Products: Create and sell e-books, planners, or online courses
2. Freelancing: Offer your professional skills on a project basis
3. Consulting: Share your industry expertise with others
4. Content Creation: Start a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel about your experiences or expertise
5. Affiliate Marketing: Promote products or services you believe in and earn commissions.
Overcoming Common Obstacles
Starting a side hustle is exciting, but it’s also normal to feel a little overwhelmed. After all, your time and energy are already being pulled in many directions. Here are a few common obstacles and how to overcome them:
1. Time Management
Time is finite, and balancing a side hustle with a job, family, and managing menopausal symptoms can feel like a juggling act. To avoid burnout, choose a side hustle that offers flexibility and can be done in your own time. Start with something that only requires a few hours a week and gradually build up as your energy allows.
2. Financial Investment
Not every side hustle requires a big financial investment. Many side hustles, like freelancing or digital services, can be started with little to no upfront costs. You can also start by using free or low-cost tools, like social media and online marketplaces, to promote your services.
3. Brain Fog and Fatigue
Menopause can lead to forgetfulness, confusion, or just feeling foggy. To combat this, set realistic goals and break tasks down into small, manageable steps. Use tools like digital calendars, to-do lists, or project management apps to keep track of your progress.
Boosting Confidence and Wellbeing
Starting a side hustle doesn’t just benefit your bank account—it can also improve your overall well-being. When you take control of your finances, you reduce the anxiety and stress that come with financial uncertainty. Plus, as you achieve your goals, you’ll gain confidence in your abilities, which can have a ripple effect on other areas of your life.
The Power of Community
Don't underestimate the value of connecting with others on similar journeys. Join online communities, attend networking events, or consider membership models that offer support and resources for budding entrepreneurs.
Embracing the Transition
Menopause doesn't have to be a roadblock in your career or financial journey. By viewing it as an opportunity for transformation, you can use this time to create a more fulfilling and flexible lifestyle. A side hustle not only provides additional income but also offers a sense of purpose and achievement during a time of significant change.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Today
Menopause may have thrown some curveballs into your life, but it’s also the perfect time to pivot and take control of your future. A side hustle can give you the freedom, flexibility, and financial independence you deserve, without being tied to a traditional job that might no longer serve you.
Start small, leverage your existing skills, and set clear goals. Before you know it, you’ll be building a side hustle that not only fits around your life but also funds the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.
If you need ideas or help getting started, drop a comment below—I’m here to help you thrive in midlife and beyond.
Continuation of Your Menopause Success Journey:
So there you have it—hot flashes, cold cash, and everything in between. If you want to dive deeper into these topics, join me in my Facebook group Menopause Midlife and all the ****. We’re a supportive community of women going through the same thing, and we’re here to help each other through it.The menopause journey is a continuum. From perimenopause and on through into postmenopause, having people who understand and support you is essential. It's not the end of your life's journey; it's a phase, and having the right community can make all the difference.
I make it my mission to support women with their transition along the menopause journey and to signpost to the best financial opportunities for their circumstances. To talk further please use this link to book a call and discuss further support.
If you would like to join a supportive community, please drop me a line here. I love hearing from midlife women going through the menopausal transition.
Pssst, you can also check out my Menopause Midlife and all the ****. It includes monthly strategies and a community of women at the same life stage as you.
Click here to take a look at our membership to make every day just that little bit easier.
