You don’t need a side hustle to make more money. Sometimes you just need to look at what you already have and use it better.
Here are five practical ways to increase your household income without working more hours.
- Sell Stuff You Don’t Need
It’s quite easy to jump on Facebook Marketplace or head to a swap meet to list some stuff for sale. There’s also the added bonus of not having the stuff laying around your house anymore.
That bike in the shed you haven’t touched in two years? The kids’ toys they’ve outgrown? The furniture you replaced but never got rid of? All of that is money sitting in your house doing nothing.
- Ask for a Pay Rise
My most favourite saying is “if you don’t ask, you don’t get”.
When was the last time you had a pay rise at your job?
Your employer isn’t going to offer more money out of the goodness of their heart. You need to ask. The worst they can say is no. The best case? You get more money for doing the same job you’re already doing.
- Downgrade Your Car
Sometimes we buy the latest and greatest toys, even though they’re used in the same manner as something cheaper.
For example, my Toyota Prado was used in Karratha for running around town, doing the groceries, and the odd occasional trip out to Dampier (20kms away). I rarely did any towing or off-roading.
I could have saved hundreds each year on lower rego fees, fuel prices, servicing and tyre replacements, had I had a much smaller car. Not only for the annual savings, but downgrading my car would have put a nice little bonus in my bank account too.
- Review Your Waste
According to studies a few years ago, Australians were throwing out up to 20% of their groceries. Imagine how much more money you would have in your bank account if you only bought what you needed.
Other waste areas include putting your Containers for Change bottles and cans in the bin – every 10 cents adds up! And buying shoes and clothes that you just don’t wear.
- Use Your Gift Cards and Vouchers
Have you been saving that gift card or voucher for a rainy day, or when you might need it next? How about you cash it in now?
Lots of gift cards can be used at multiple shops – either saving on groceries or for something special. By actually using that voucher, you’re gaining more income.
Remember, the Law of Attraction says that if you’re thinking about something positively, then you will attract more of it. So instead of thinking that you need more money, how about you think about where you already have more money?
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and doesn’t take your personal circumstances into account. Always seek professional advice for your specific situation.
