Why So Many Women Are Starting Side Hustles (And Why You Might Want One Too!)
Let’s be real—since COVID turned everything upside down, a whole lot of women have been rethinking what work really means. And spoiler alert: the 9-to-5 grind doesn’t work for everyone. More and more of us are starting side hustles—not just for the extra cash, but for freedom, creativity, and a sense of purpose.
So what’s behind this surge in women-powered side businesses? Let’s break it down.
The Side Hustle Boom (Thanks, Pandemic)
When the world shut down, job security went out the window and many women had to juggle more than ever—work, kids, home life, all the things. That kind of pressure pushed a lot of us to get creative.
📊 Fun fact: Before the pandemic, women made up just 29% of new business owners. Now? It’s jumped to 50%! We’re out here turning hobbies into hustle, ideas into income, and dreams into something real.
Why Having a Side Hustle Is a Game-Changer
Whether you’re selling handmade candles, running a small coaching business, or launching a boutique brand, having your own thing on the side can make a huge difference. Here's why:
💸 Extra Income = Peace of Mind: Let’s face it—life’s expensive. A side hustle helps cover bills, build savings, or fund that dream vacation. In fact, 45% of working Americans have one, and about 30% rely on it to make ends meet.
🚀 It Builds Skills (and Confidence!): Running a business, even part-time, teaches you everything from marketing to budgeting to time management. You’ll surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
🕒 It’s Flexible: You call the shots. You can work during nap time, late at night, or in between meetings. It’s hustle-on-your-own-terms energy.
🌟 It Can Grow into Something Bigger: A lot of full-time business owners started with a side hustle. In 2024, nearly half of new business owners launched while still working another job. Test the waters first—you never know where it’ll lead!
Why You Need a Support Squad
Let’s be clear: going after your goals is exciting—but it’s also tough if you’re doing it alone. That’s why building a support network is a must.
💬 You’ll Learn More, Faster: Surrounding yourself with other business-minded women means access to advice, resources, and opportunities you might not find on your own.
❤️ It Keeps You Going: On the days when imposter syndrome creeps in (and it will), having a group of cheerleaders, mentors, and fellow hustlers makes all the difference.
💡 It Helps You Grow: Research shows that women who are part of strong business networks are more likely to grow successful, profitable companies. It’s not just about who you know—it’s about who gets you.