A few bucks go a long way when you’re scrounging for money. You don’t need to start a side business and take up all your free time, though. Enough money to cover a bill, pick up groceries, or have a night out is good enough.
There are a lot of creative ways to make money even if you’re not creative.
If you have some free time and a willingness to put your name out there you’ll earn a few extra bucks each day. This post goes out to all those working the 9-to-5 that could use extra cash flow. And, are willing to get crafty with how it’s done.
Creative Ways to Make Money for Non-Creative People
Sure, you could start an Etsy store as you’ve seen in so many other make money lists. But, that becomes another job. You’re already working a 9-to-5 and the last thing you want to do is a second one.
Here are a few legit ways to make some side money without it become a hassle:
1. Games of Chance
Alright, yes, gambling.
You risk a bit of money to (hopefully) make more than you put in. The smart player doesn’t gamble anything they can’t afford to lose. A good entry is through SlotWise Offers or online poker if you understand the game rules.
Alternatives include sports betting, fantasy leagues, and e-sports betting.
2. Surveys
Surveys are slow money makers but they do make money. The basics are that you take surveys and get paid about $0.10 to about $1.00 depending on its complexity.
Decent survey sites include:
- Swagbucks
- InboxDollars
- MyPoints
You can earn more money by referring friends to these sites. Or, taking advantage of bonuses from buying products through the platform. This works great as a cashback type money maker especially if you needed that item.
3. Flip Stuff Online
Visit your local thrift stores and yard sales to pick out cool items. Then, get them listed on FB marketplace, craigslist, or eBay. This works great when you know valuable brands, models, and product categories.
Suggestions on what to look for include:
- Old school computer items or video games
- Designer brand clothing and accessories
- Hard-to-find books and media
Go for stuff that’s lightweight and easy and cheap to ship.
Try this, too: You could purge your home and sell stuff you don’t need.
4. Be a Virtual Assistant
Those skills office and managerial skills can earn you easy money doing it for people who rather not. As a VA, you’ll work with individuals or companies filling in and doing a variety of tasks.
You can find these gigs via:
- Job search engines
- Remote.co job boards
- Freelance Marketplaces
All you’ll need is a few communication tools and you’re good to go. You could earn a few bucks or make regular ($10 to $15+) pay depending on the gig.
5. Donate Plasma
It’s not glorious but you can make an easy $50 to $75 each visit.
Check your town/city for “plasma donation” and you’ll likely find a few providers. You’ll fill out basic paperwork and then you’re ready to donate. Most times it’ll take about 2 hours — not bad when you have a free afternoon.
Find a Balance in Side Hustling
What good are these creative ways to make money if they become a second job? The point is to make more money but have fewer problems. Find a balance so you’re not trading all your free time for a few extra bucks.
On that note:
Learn how to avoid wasteful spending. If you can master this and balancing a side hustle you’ll do great!
Yes, great ideas. I like taking surveys online.