Writing as a Side Hustle
Starting a writing side hustle might feel daunting at first. If you’re anything like me when I started out, you have a demanding day job, little free time, and the fear of not being good enough. it’s no wonder so many people hesitate to actually make a start. Add concerns about competition and the rise of AI-generated content, and it feels like the odds are stacked against you.
Just remember, most successful writers once felt the same way. I certainly did! I didn’t know if I could earn money from my writing, but I was willing to give it a shot. Now, when I look back, all those 5.30am starts were worth it. (I’m not a morning person so I really had to push myself, too.) This means that if you have the passion and the dogged perseverance, you already have everything you need to begin.
It isn’t just about passive income (although that’s the best bonus). Even for the newbie writer, escaping into the world of books is fun! It’s about taking an idea in your head and turning it into something tangible. Unlike most small businesses, there are no overheads to begin with. It doesn’t cost anything to start, and it might just change your life.
Should You Write as a Side Hustle?
If you’re still feeling unsure, here are some great reasons why learning how to write a book is worth your time. And yes, you have to learn this stuff, but don’t worry, you’ll improve as you go along!
- It’s Good for You: Writing is good for your brain. It helps reduce stress, too. It can feel therapeutic to pour your emotions into stories, even if no one reads them but you. I used to be a police detective so writing crime thrillers have always felt like therapy to me.
- Escapism at its Finest: Through your characters and stories, you can experience new worlds, explore emotions, and live adventures, all from the comfort of your home. When my mum passed away, I was so overcome with grief that it was a relief to escape into another world. People start for all sorts of reasons, but honestly, writing can be such a refuge at times.
- It’s Fun: Yes, writing can be hard, but creating something from scratch is so satisfying. Being an author and writing for a living is like being on a roller coaster. Even now, I have tough moments but I live for the highs.
- Completely Flexible: Writing fits around your life. Each snatched opportunity is sowing the seeds. Whether you have 15 free minutes or a couple of hours, you can make progress whenever you find time. That’s why it worked so well for me. I used to write in the car, on the train, in bed – anywhere I could snatch a few stolen minutes.
- Opportunities for Income: Writing skills can be developed in time, but making money online doesn’t happen overnight. With commitment and consistency, you can turn your writing into a source of income. The best part? Once your books are found by readers, online self-publishing platforms like KDP allow you to earn money even while you sleep.
- It’s All Yours: Writing is about creating something that’s just for you, to begin with. It’s all yours to escape into. Nobody else has ownership of it in the early days, so the only pressure is that you place upon yourself.
Stuck? Here's How to Fix It
“I don’t know where to start…”
Begin small. You don’t need to write a bestseller right away. Much of the early days will be about practicing, learning, and improving your craft. Rome wasn’t built in a day, as they say. Be patient. It takes time. Start by journaling your thoughts, write short stories, or try blogging about something you’re passionate about. No idea is too small to explore.
A lot of book bloggers go on to become authors, which is a great idea as they’ve already grown their platform on social media. Your own blog could be something you’re proud of, and a great testament to your writing. When my book was reviewed by book reviewer Abigail Osbourne, I emailed her not just to thank her, but to recommend that she start writing herself. Her turn of phrase was so unique, and my advice didn’t fall on deaf ears, either. She went on to write and publish her own novels, saying “I would never have started writing without Caroline’s support and guidance.” Heartwarming, isn’t it?
“What if I’m not good enough to write a book?”
Many writers doubt themselves, approaching the written word like it’s going to snap your fingers off. The secret is accepting that no first draft is perfect, or even great. Even after writing 23 bestselling books, my first draft is not something I’d be proud to share! Writing is a skill that improves with consistent practice and you have to start from somewhere.
“AI can do this now. Is there even a place for me?”
Absolutely! AI can replicate words, but it cannot replicate your voice, heart, and perspective. Readers connect deeply with stories that feel human. Writing with passion and authenticity is what sets you apart. I pour my soul into my books, feel real emotion when writing my characters, and become fully immersed.
“I don’t know what to write…”
The old adage ‘write the story you want to read’ is so true. Look at the books or genres you love and ask yourself what’s missing—maybe it’s an untold perspective or a new twist. Inspiration is everywhere once you start paying attention. It’s all about getting your mind in the right place to start seeing stories everywhere.
“I don’t have the time to write.”
Finding time to write or motivation to start can feel hard, but you don’t need hours to make progress. Start with 15-30 minutes a day. Those small chunks of time add up to something significant. If you want to make money, you have to put in the work.
“What about writer’s block?”
It happens to everyone. If you’re stuck, try stepping away from your project. Read a book or watch a film for inspiration. Sometimes the answer you need comes when you least expect it. As Stephen King says, you have to read widely if you want to write. Other writers are very wise (ahem!) It’s worth listening to their advice. So yes, it’s possible to make money writing online. I’ve sold over two million books. I’m testament to that.
How to Make Writing Work Around Your Life
Take it from someone who’s been there. I started writing while working full-time as a police detective, juggling a demanding job and four young children. Most days, I could only find 30 minutes to write, but I made those minutes count. Writing became my escape. It gave me purpose on the hardest days, and it was something entirely my own.
Eventually, my writing skills developed into something more than a passion project. When I began earning more from writing than from my job, I took the leap into a full-time writing career—and I’ve never looked back. I love being my own boss. Who would have thought that a simple story idea would lead to a writing career?
You don’t need endless hours, expensive tools, or a master’s degree in creative writing to start. You just need the willingness to take that first small step.
Real Writers Who Turned Side Hustles Into Dream Careers
If you’re wondering whether starting small is enough, take a look at these inspiring examples of writers who began as side hustlers and found success.
- Andy Weir: He wrote The Martian while still working as a software engineer. He first published it as a free serial on his blog, and today it’s a bestselling novel and major motion picture.
- Stephen King: Before becoming a household name, King worked as a high school teacher and wrote short stories on the side. His persistence led to the success of Carrie.
- A Detective Turned Writer (Me!): Writing while working as a police detective was therapeutic, allowing me to create justice in my stories even when it felt lacking in the real world. Eventually, writing helped me achieve a dream I never thought possible—a career filled with creativity and freedom.
These writers didn’t start with fame or infinite hours in their schedules. They started with grit, love for their craft, and the determination to make it happen.
Practical Tips to Start Your Writing Journey
- Start with Daily Writing: Set a timer for 15 minutes and write anything. Over time, you’ll develop discipline and flow.
- Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of aiming for a completed novel, focus on a chapter a month or a certain word count each day.
- Find Your Tribe: Join writing communities online or in-person to connect with like-minded creatives. Fellow writers can inspire and encourage you on days when motivation runs low.
- Write from the Heart: Authenticity goes a long way. Pour yourself into your stories, and your readers will feel it.
Start small, stay consistent, and focus on progress over perfection. Writing is an adventure, and it’s not for the faint of heart—but the rewards are incredible.
You have stories that only you can tell. Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. The most important step is the first one.
Whether you want to write for fun, escapism, or as a career change, you’ll find the right path with your passion and persistence guiding the way.
Final Thoughts From Someone Who's Been There
Writing as a side hustle is so much more than a way to earn extra income. It’s a creative outlet, a mental escape, and a chance to create something entirely yours.
Remember, writing takes effort, heart, and persistence—but the more you give, the more it gives back. Start your story today—you never know where it might lead. Who knows? It just might be the best decision you’ve ever made.
What do you think? I’d love to know your thoughts. Drop a comment below and let’s chat. Writers love a good discussion, after all.
3 thoughts on “Writing as a Side Hustle”
Final edits on my fiction novel I started in 1989! My escape through heartbreaking losses.
Cover is in progress!
Well done Brenda, writing is great therapy. I’m sure your cover will be amazing.
Forgot to mention the title… Caribbean Ties… out soon!