Love Your Hobby? Here’s How to Turn it Into a Business
Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life. While that’s what we are told, very few people do what they love as a career. That being said, it is completely feasible to turn your beloved hobby into a full-on career. Whether it’s pottery, fashion, cooking, sports or whatever else, there is a business opportunity out there waiting for you.
Additionally, if you are recovering from an addiction, a hobby-based business may aid in your recovery process. Keep reading to learn some tips and tricks for transforming your hobby into a dream job.
Find What You Love
While some people have a pre-established hobby, others may still be on their extra-curricular quest. If this sounds like you, begin by identifying what you truly love to do and what helps you be the best version of yourself.
The arts are an incredible outlet for expression, that can also be turned into a lucrative business. Painting, writing, crafts and blogging can be immensely beneficial and even therapeutic, especially for individuals recovering from substance abuse, as it helps decrease stress and anxiety, build meaningful friendships, and boost confidence.
Many people find full-time employment in graphic design, photo editing and video production. Alternatively, you could consider capitalizing on one of your soft skills. For example, if you enjoy caregiving, you might be interested in starting your own seniors care service. No matter what you choose, be sure it’s something you are genuinely passionate about.
Finding the Right Avenue
Now that you have discovered what you love, it’s time to start imagining your dream job environment. If you love being around others in a professional environment, consider on-site employment opportunities in your given field. For example, if you love sports, consider local opportunities at TV stations, news outlets or marketing companies. If your dream is to work from the comfort of your own home, consider virtual freelancing, e-commerce, customer service, or bookkeeping. If you want to meet in the middle, a brick-and-mortar store might be perfect. A storefront is a great way to be your own boss while having a designated “work zone.” Be sure there is a local market for your service/product.
Addiction, Hobbies and Your New Business
Addiction recovery can be an immensely challenging process and requires individuals to uncover their true selves. This can be a great opportunity to discover what you love, learn more about yourself, and develop healthy coping strategies. Recovering addicts also often suffer from job loss and/or reduced hours. Substance abuse can also be linked to one’s work environment thereby requiring an individual to quit his/her job in favour of recovery. Extended absences can also lead to career plateaus leaving people in need of additional financial resources. Turning your hobby into a business has the dual benefit of providing income, while fulfilling your deeper, emotional needs.
Developing a Strategy
Every business plan starts with a personal and financial strategy. Some individuals prefer to keep their current job and use their hobby-based business as a supplementary income source while others completely change careers. During this stage, it is important to do your research. Luckily, it is easier than ever to find out what similar businesses have done to become successful.
Start by understanding what other successful businesses/people are doing in your industry and look for ways you can improve. Next, take stock of your current life – do you have the time? The finances? The emotional support system? If not, look at what areas prove most challenging and investigate alternatives. For example, if you do not have the necessary finances, consider discussing the possibility of a small business loan with your bank.
Turning your hobby into a business can be a great way to make a living while simultaneously doing what you love. If you are interested in starting your own hobby-based business, begin by discovering what you love, doing your research and developing a strategy. The opportunities for creativity, growth and professional achievement are endless!