How to build something on the side (properly)

Here's the thing about side hustles in 2024:

Of course, the extra money is great.

But I see the real value in giving yourself options.

Let me explain.

The Sidemen all started as side hustles:

• Gaming videos while studying

• Content while working other jobs

• Small projects that grew into businesses

None of them quit their lives overnight.

They built their empire on the side, first.

Here's what most people get wrong about side hustles:

• They think it's about going all in.

• About risking everything.

• About that "quit your job" moment.

It's not.

Here's how to do it right:

Start With What You Know

Start with what you actually know, not what you think will make money. I see this all the time – people jumping into dropshipping or crypto because they've heard that's where the money is. But the Sidemen didn't start businesses randomly. They built what they knew their audience wanted. They understood their space deeply because they lived in it every day. Your expertise might seem obvious to you, but that's exactly why it's valuable. Start there.

Use Your Day Job as Funding

I learned this firsthand at VICE. That steady income gave me the freedom to try things, to make mistakes, to test ideas without the pressure of needing immediate results. When you're not desperate for your side hustle to pay rent next month, you make better decisions. You can think long-term. Keep your salary. Let it fund your growth.

Set Realistic Time Blocks

Here's what I've noticed with successful creators: they don't start with massive time commitments. They start with what they can actually maintain. Can't do four hours a day? Start with 30 minutes. Consistency beats intensity every time. The Sidemen didn't start with their current production schedule. They built up to it. Start where you are, with what you have.

Build in Public

Building in public feels scary. I get it. But it's the fastest way to create momentum. Share what you're learning. Document the journey. Every time you post about what you're doing, you're building an audience for your future business. Look at how the Sidemen built their brands – they didn't wait until everything was perfect. They brought people along for the ride. Your journey is content. Use it.

Focus on Systems, Not Goals

Don't aim for "I want to make X amount." Ask yourself "What system can I build in 30 minutes a day?" Could you write one LinkedIn post? Film one TikTok? Send one email? Small systems, repeated consistently, build empires. The Sidemen didn't start with massive production teams. They built systems they could manage, then scaled them up.

Here's the reality check:

Most side hustles fail because people try to do too much, too fast.

• They quit their jobs too early.

• They invest too much money upfront.

• They try to be full-time entrepreneurs on part-time hours.

Instead, think of your side hustle as a playground.

• A place to test ideas.

• To learn new skills.

• To build an audience.

To make mistakes while your bills are still paid.

Start small.

Stay consistent.

Build systems.

Learn always.

The rest follows.

Chat soon,

Jordan

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