This is the side hustle revolution | The Way We Work, a TED series

Summary

The video script explores the concept of 'side hustles', illustrating how they embody an entrepreneurial spirit beyond traditional employment. It highlights the journey of women of color who have successfully launched side hustles, emphasizing the opportunity to be one's own boss, the value of self-discipline, and the pursuit of multiple passions. The script reveals that side hustles are not just for income but also a means for personal growth and fulfillment, with many millennials openly sharing their side hustles with employers, recognizing the benefits of such endeavors.

Takeaways

• 😀 Not everyone has a single career interest for life; people often have multiple passions.
• 📈 Approximately 15% of American workers have non-traditional jobs, such as part-time, contract, or temporary work.
• 💼 The term 'side hustle' originated in African American newspapers and evolved to represent legitimate work.
• 💡 A side hustle is distinct from a second job; it is more aspirational and entrepreneurial.
• 🚀 Successful side hustles are often started by identifying opportunities within one's community and targeting a specific audience.
• 💼 People are increasingly interested in autonomy and being their own boss, which requires discipline and accountability.
• 🛠 A side hustle is a practical way to test one's entrepreneurial skills before fully committing to self-employment.
• 🌟 Side hustles are not just about job dissatisfaction; they are also a result of having multiple interests and passions.
• 🏡 Lisa Price's story illustrates that side hustles can stem from a desire to explore additional interests, even when one loves their job.
• 🤔 The script challenges the notion of having a single career path, emphasizing the value of exploring various interests.
• 💰 Side hustles offer a chance to invest in oneself and are seen as a safer bet when one has a steady income.
• 🏆 Many millennials with side hustles are open about them with their employers, recognizing the growth opportunities they provide.
• 🌱 The side hustle revolution reflects a broader desire for fulfillment and the pursuit of happiness in one's career.

Q & A

What percentage of American workers are not engaged in traditional full-time jobs according to the script?

Approximately 15 percent of American workers do not have traditional full-time jobs.

What does the term 'side hustle' traditionally refer to, and how has its meaning evolved?

The term 'side hustle' originally referred to a scam in the 1920s, as used in African American newspapers. By the 1950s, it also referred to legitimate work.

How is a 'side hustle' different from a 'second job'?

A 'side hustle' is more aspirational and captures an entrepreneurial spirit, while a 'second job' is typically about necessity.

What is the primary goal of people who start side hustles, as mentioned in the script?

The primary goal is not necessarily to become the next Coca-Cola or Google, but to build a successful business for a specific audience.

What trait do self-made millionaires tend to have in common, according to the script?

Self-made millionaires have the trait of making decisions, holding themselves accountable, and pushing through challenges.

Why do people start side hustles, even if they love their main job?

People start side hustles because they are 'multipassionate' and have interests in various things, not just because they hate their job.

What is the significance of side hustles in terms of personal growth and learning?

Side hustles are a way to invest in oneself, offering opportunities for learning and growth, even if they do not become successful.

How do millennials view sharing information about their side hustles with their employers?

Forty-one percent of millennials with side hustles have shared this information with their employers, not fearing negative reactions and recognizing the value of the experience.

What does the script suggest about the relationship between side hustles and career fulfillment?

The script suggests that side hustles can lead to a sense of fulfillment, as they allow individuals to explore different interests and make decisions about their work lives.

What is the main message the script conveys about the side hustle revolution?

The side hustle revolution shows that people want to make a bet on themselves, embrace their multipassionate nature, and find happiness through various work endeavors.

How can side hustles be seen as an experiment in being one's own boss?

Side hustles offer an opportunity to test entrepreneurial skills and self-discipline before fully committing to running a business.