Side Hustles: 8 Creative Ways to Boost Your Income

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Introduction:

If you’re looking for extra money, side hustles can be a great way to supplement your income. A side hustle is any job or activity you do in addition to your primary source of income. With the rise of the gig economy and the growing popularity of freelance work, there are more opportunities than ever to earn extra cash. In this article, we’ll explore 8 creative side hustle ideas that can help you boost your income.

Online Tutoring

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Online tutoring is a great side hustle for anyone with teaching experience or expertise in a particular subject. With online tutoring platforms like TutorMe and Chegg, you can connect with students worldwide and offer one-on-one tutoring sessions. Online tutoring can be done from the comfort of your home, and you can set your rates and hours.

Virtual Assistant

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As more and more businesses move online, the demand for virtual assistants is growing. Virtual assistants (VAs) provide administrative support to businesses and individuals remotely. This can include scheduling appointments, managing email, and handling social media. To become a virtual assistant, you’ll need strong organizational and communication skills and experience with software like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

Pet Sitting/Dog Walking

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If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking can be a fun and rewarding side hustle. You can advertise your services through websites like Rover and Care.com or post flyers in your local community. Pet sitting and dog walking can be done on your schedule, and the pay can be lucrative, especially if you have repeat clients.

Freelance Writing

Source from Upwork

If you have a way with words, freelance writing can be a great way to make extra money. Many websites and publications are always looking for new content, from blog posts to feature articles. You’ll need to build a writing sample portfolio and network with other writers and editors to get started. Websites like Upwork and Freelancer.com can also connect you with freelance writing gigs.

Food Delivery

With the rise of food delivery services like Deliveroo and Uber Eats, becoming a food delivery driver can be a profitable side hustle. To get started, you’ll need a reliable vehicle or bicycle and a smartphone to receive orders. You can work as many or as few hours as you like, and the pay can be pretty good, especially during peak hours.

Freelance Graphic

If you have a talent for graphic design, freelance work can be a great way to make extra money. You can offer your services through websites like Fiverr and 99designs or even reach out to local businesses and offer to create logos or marketing materials for them. To be successful as a freelance graphic designer, you’ll need to have a strong portfolio of work and excellent communication skills.

Photography

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If you have a passion for photography, there are many ways to turn it into a side hustle. You can sell your photos online through websites like Shutterstock and iStock, or even offer your services as a freelance photographer for events like weddings and birthdays. To be successful as a photographer, you’ll need to have a good eye for composition and lighting and top-notch editing skills.

Social Media Management

If you’re a social media whiz, offering your services as a social media manager can be a lucrative side hustle. Businesses of all sizes always seek help with their social media accounts, from creating content to managing campaigns. To be successful as a social media manager, you’ll need to have a deep understanding of social media platforms and excellent communication skills.

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The Science of Finding Career Happiness: Evidence-Based Techniques for Discovering Your Dream Job

Finding a career that you enjoy can be a daunting task. It requires a lot of self-reflection, planning, taking risks and trying new things. In this article, we’ll discuss seven evidence-based techniques that you can use to move towards a career that aligns with your passions and interests.

Task over Title

Many people focus too much on the job title when considering their careers. However, it’s essential to consider the day-to-day tasks involved in a particular job. If you focus too much on the label, you may end up in a position that doesn’t align with your interests or passions. Instead, consider what tasks you enjoy daily and choose a career that aligns with those tasks.

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Visualize Your “Me Plus”

“Me Plus” is the version of yourself you aspire to be in your career. Visualize what your “Me Plus” would be doing, including your job title, industry, and company. Think about what responsibilities you would want and what specific tasks you would be doing daily. This exercise can help you clarify your goals and work towards a career that aligns with your interests and passions.

Audit Your Time

One way to move towards a career you enjoy is to audit your time. Write down what you’re doing daily, and determine whether or not you want those activities. Did they give you a sense of purpose or lead you to a better place in five years? This exercise can help you determine what activities you enjoy and should avoid.

Invest in Your Skills

Investing in your skills is essential for building a career that you enjoy. Spend at least 13 minutes daily working on skills to help you achieve your career goals. For example, spend 13 minutes a day writing or reading about writing to become a writer. Over time, these small investments in your skills will compound, and you’ll become more proficient in your chosen field.

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You Probably Don’t Need to Go Back to University

While a university degree can be helpful in specific fields, it’s not always necessary. Many online resources can help you learn new skills or gain knowledge in a particular area. Avoid committing to a four-year degree or an expensive master’s program unless necessary. Instead, use the resources available to learn new skills and gain knowledge.

Embrace U-Turns

Your career journey is not linear, and it’s okay to make changes as you go. Embrace U-turns, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Experiment with different careers and industries until you find the one that aligns with your passions and interests.

Experiment and Iterate

Experimenting and iterating are essential for finding a career that you enjoy. Try new things and take on side projects or volunteer opportunities that allow you to try out new skills or industries. Start small and work your way up, building your skills and portfolio. Don’t be afraid to pivot and make changes as you go, and remember that mistakes and failures are just part of the learning process.

In conclusion, finding a career you enjoy is possible if you put in the time and effort. By focusing on the tasks rather than the job title, visualizing your “Me Plus,” auditing your time, investing in your skills, avoiding excessive degrees, embracing u-turns, and experimenting and iterating, you can move closer towards a career that aligns with your passions and interests. Remember that your career journey is personal, and what works for someone else may not work for you.

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Mastering the Art of Execution: Strategies for the Business Elite

 

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Introduction

A well-executed plan can distinguish between success and failure in today's fast-paced business landscape. While having a solid strategy is essential, it is often the implementation of that strategy that separates the top 1% of businesses from the rest. This article will explore the importance of execution in business, the pitfalls of overthinking strategy, and methods for adopting the mindset and techniques employed by the most successful companies.

I. The Importance of Execution

Company ideas are worthless without execution.

Numerous studies have shown that more than a great idea is needed to guarantee success. A survey conducted by the Harvard Business Review found that 90% of start-ups fail due to poor execution rather than the concept itself. The most successful companies are those that can effectively transform their ideas into tangible products and services.

The pace of technological progress is a competitive advantage
As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented rate, the ability to adapt and respond to these changes has become a critical factor in a company's success. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies that can successfully adapt to technological changes are twice as likely to outperform their peers in revenue growth.

II. The Pitfalls of Overthinking Strategy

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Analysis paralysis

Focusing too much on strategy can lead to analysis paralysis, which refers to the inability to make decisions due to over-analysing data or options. A Columbia University study found that individuals with fewer choices were more likely to decide for those with more intentions. In business, this can translate into delayed decision-making and missed opportunities.

Inability to adapt

Overemphasis on strategy can also result in an inability to adapt to changing market conditions. As the business environment continues to evolve, companies must be able to pivot and modify their strategies accordingly. According to a study by the Boston Consulting Group, companies that can adapt to market changes are 30% more likely to achieve long-term success.

III. Adopting the Mindset of the Top 1%

Prioritise execution over strategy

The most successful companies focus on execution rather than overthinking their strategies. A study conducted by the Corporate Executive Board found that companies that prioritise execution are twice as likely to achieve their strategic objectives as those that focus primarily on strategy.

Embrace flexibility and adaptability.

Successful companies are those that can quickly respond to changes in the market and adapt their strategies accordingly. Embracing flexibility and adaptability allows businesses to capitalise on new opportunities and stay ahead of their competitors.

Foster a culture of accountability.

A strong culture of accountability is essential for successful execution. When team members are held accountable for their actions and are empowered to make decisions, they are more likely to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to better execution of the company's strategic objectives.

IV. Techniques for Mastering the Art of Execution

Break down strategic objectives into actionable steps

To ensure effective execution, strategic objectives should be broken down into smaller, actionable steps. This allows teams to focus on specific tasks and measure progress, improving overall execution.

Establish clear communication channels.

Clear and effective communication is essential for successful execution. By establishing open communication channels, team members can collaborate more effectively, leading to better decision-making and faster implementation of strategic objectives.

Teams

Leverage technology to improve execution

Technology can be a powerful tool in improving the execution of strategic objectives. Companies can streamline processes, track progress, and identify potential bottlenecks by utilising project management tools, analytics software, and other resources, leading to more efficient and effective execution.

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The Upward Trend in China’s Minimum Wage: Implications and Impact

资料来源：今天头条

In recent years, China’s minimum wage has experienced significant adjustments, leading to higher standards for the lowest-paid workers in various regions. According to data from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, 15 areas in China have set their minimum monthly wages at or above 2,000 yuan as of 1st April 2023. Shanghai currently holds the highest minimum wage at 2,590 yuan, followed by Shenzhen, Beijing, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hebei, Tianjin, Shandong, Sichuan, Chongqing, Anhui, Fujian, Hubei, and Henan.

The minimum wage regulations in China allow for different standards within provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities. These standards are generally set as minimum monthly wages for full-time employees and hourly wages for non-full-time employees. Beijing currently has the highest hourly minimum wage in the country at 25.3 yuan.

资料来源：人社通

The question of whether minimum wage standards include the “Five Insurances and One Fund” (五险一金) — the mandatory social insurance and housing provident fund contributions for individuals — varies across different regions. In most areas, the minimum wage standards do encompass this contribution. Anhui, for example, adjusted its minimum wage standard in March 2023 to include individual contributions for social insurance and housing provident funds, aligning it with other provinces1.

However, minimum wage standards in Beijing and Shanghai do not include these contributions. Employers in these cities must pay these contributions separately, making the minimum wage higher than the stated amount.

When minimum wage standards are raised, they not only directly increase the wages of low-income workers but also have a ripple effect on other benefits. For instance, unemployment insurance benefits, wages during medical leave, probationary period wages, and basic living expenses for workers during company shutdowns or business suspensions tend to increase along with the minimum wage[⁴^]. In Anhui, unemployment insurance benefits are set at 90% of the minimum wage and are adjusted accordingly. With the recent increase in Anhui’s minimum wage, several areas have changed their unemployment insurance benefits.

This upward trend in minimum wage standards could have several implications. For workers, higher minimum wages may improve living standards, reduce income inequality, and stimulate consumption. The higher wage floor could increase labour costs and compel businesses to improve productivity and efficiency.

However, some experts argue that raising the minimum wage could lead to job losses or push companies to cut back on other employee benefits. Additionally, there is a concern that higher minimum wages could contribute to inflation, as businesses may pass on increased labour costs to consumers.

In conclusion, the recent increases in China’s minimum wage standards signify a step towards improving the living conditions of low-income workers. However, it is essential to carefully monitor the potential economic consequences of these adjustments to ensure balanced and sustainable growth.

Reference:

1. 长江日报最低薪资(2023.03) https://news.cjn.cn/zjzycsqpd/wh_20023/202304/t4515712.htm
2. 人社通各省市最低薪资(2023.03) https://m12333.cn/policy/wrib.html

The Mysterious Case of the "996" Protest in China: A Closer Look at the Controversial WeChat Chat Records

Recently, a WeChat group chat conversation has caused a stir on China's internet. From Weibo to Douyin, from Kuaishou to Bilibili, and even on Toutiao, almost everyone is talking about the chat records of this WeChat group. The chat records are quite lengthy, spanning several pages, and the content is about an employee named Chen Zhilong. Before the Qingming Festival, his boss asked them to work overtime, and he took off his Kong Yiji-style robe and directly confronted his boss. This action received cheers from his colleagues in the WeChat group. These chat records have resonated greatly with the public, as many people are experiencing the "996" work culture, where they work from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week. This also exposes the reality of many Chinese companies violating labour laws and forcing employees to work overtime.

After such an incident is exposed, the relevant departments should investigate which organization is involved, who is breaking the law, and how to handle it. However, surprisingly, the situation has become mysterious and unclear. This is because, in this WeChat group, the name of the project team is a subsidiary of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC). But on April 5th, CETC issued a statement saying that the unit mentioned in the chat record is not a subsidiary of CETC, and the employee mentioned is not an employee of CETC. In other words, this has nothing to do with CETC. Here, I would like to add some information about CETC. It was initially part of the Ministry of Electronics Industry and later transformed into an enterprise mainly serving the Chinese military. For example, most of China's radar design and manufacturing is handled by departments under CETC. It is a first-class confidential unit.

Subsequently, the Sichuan Provincial Federation of Trade Unions also stated in an interview that this incident did not happen in Chengdu. This is because the WeChat group mentioned a project team in Chengdu, but he said it happened somewhere else and didn't happen this year. In any case, whether it is CETC or the Sichuan Provincial Federation of Trade Unions, they keep their distance from this matter, which is very strange. It is still being determined where the incident occurred, and it is even faint if it happened. Some people are sceptical and believe this might be a staged publicity stunt or a hoax.

However, regardless of whether the incident is actual or not, the issue of excessive overtime and the "996" work culture is a real problem in China. It has been reported that many Chinese companies require their employees to work long hours, and some even force them to work overtime without pay. According to China's labour law, the standard working hours are no more than eight hours a day and 44 hours a week. Any overtime work should be paid according to a certain percentage of the employee's hourly wage. However, many companies ignore these regulations and force their employees to work overtime without proper compensation, which seriously violates their rights.

The issue of overtime is not limited to China. It is a global problem that affects many countries. In Japan, for example, the pain of excessive overtime is so severe that there is a term for it, "karoshi," which means death from overwork. In South Korea, the government has recently introduced a law that limits the maximum number of working hours per week to 52 hours to reduce the incidence of overwork-related health problems.

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New points system for Employment Pass (EP) applications in Singapore

 

Source: CNA

As a policy analyst, examining and understanding Singapore's new points system for Employment Pass (EP) applications is essential. The system includes bonus points for applicants in shortage jobs, with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) publishing a list of 27 jobs that are facing shortages. Among these jobs are AI scientists and carbon traders, which indicates a focus on high-tech and environmentally-friendly industries.

The inclusion of bonus points for candidates from top-tier institutions and those with degree-equivalent qualifications indicate a focus on attracting highly skilled and educated individuals to the country. The top-tier institutions include the top 100 universities based on QS World University Rankings and other highly reputable universities in Asia, Singapore's autonomous universities, and institutions highly recognized in a particular field. This could lead to increased competition for positions among applicants, as those from top-tier institutions are given an advantage in the application process.

The new points system aims to make it easier for EP applicants to obtain the required score of 40 points. The procedure considers factors such as the firm's size, the percentage of PMETs from one nationality, the firm's share of local PMETs within its subsector, and the candidate's salary compared to local PMET salaries in the sector by age. These criteria determine whether the applicant is eligible for an EP.

The new system may affect the number of foreigners holding jobs in Singapore. The 88.5% recorded last year could increase if the new system attracts more highly skilled and educated foreign workers. However, this could also lead to concerns about the displacement of local workers in specific industries.

In conclusion, the new points system for EP applications in Singapore aims to attract highly skilled and educated individuals. The system includes bonus points for candidates in shortage jobs, those from top-tier institutions, and those with degree-equivalent qualifications. While the procedure could increase the number of foreigners holding employment in Singapore, it could also lead to concerns about the displacement of local workers in specific industries. As a policy analyst, it is essential to continue monitoring the impact of the new system on the labour market and the overall economy of Singapore.

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The Impact of Algorithms on Chinese Gig Workers in the Platform Economy

 

As the platform economy grows, gig workers such as delivery riders and ride-hailing drivers have become emerging professionals in the internet age. They work tirelessly, navigating through busy city traffic to complete their tasks. However, algorithms are increasingly limiting their time. Customer ratings intensify the conflict between consumers and gig workers, making the platform economy even more complex and binding delivery riders more tightly.

Can waiting an extra 5 minutes solve the dilemma for delivery riders? How can we restrain the algorithms that cause harm to gig workers? Where do the rights of gig workers in emerging industries lie?

The platform economy is characterised by matching supply and demand through digital platforms, which rely heavily on algorithms to optimise their operations. These algorithms, however, have limitations and can only consider some of the complex variables that come with human decision-making. This can lead to unintended consequences, especially in gig work.

One of the critical challenges that gig workers face is the time limit imposed by algorithms. In the delivery industry, algorithms set tight delivery schedules, making it difficult for riders to take breaks or rest. They must complete a certain number of orders within a specified time frame, which can be highly stressful and physically demanding. At the same time, algorithms prioritise customer ratings, often used to measure rider performance. This creates a situation where riders are forced to prioritise customer satisfaction over their own well-being, leading to a misalignment of incentives between the platform, riders, and customers.

Moreover, customer ratings and reviews can create intense and unfair pressure on delivery riders. Many customers are impatient and intolerant of any delay, leading to poor ratings and negative feedback, even when the delay is beyond the rider’s control. This can lead to a significant impact on the rider’s earnings, as their ratings and reviews determine whether they receive future orders or not. The system creates a high-stress environment that can lead to burnout and adverse mental health effects for riders.

As consumers, we may feel frustrated when delivery riders take longer than expected to deliver our food. It is tempting to blame the rider and give them a poor rating. However, it is essential to recognise that these ratings significantly impact the rider’s income and working conditions. Offering a low rating may seem like an appropriate response to a delay, but it can cause significant harm to the rider’s livelihood.

The algorithm-driven platform economy has created a complex and challenging work environment for gig workers. However, it is essential to recognise that gig work has always been difficult, even before the advent of digital platforms. The gig economy has grown in response to changes in the labour market, including the rise of part-time and flexible work and the increasing demand for low-cost services. However, the platform economy has exacerbated the challenges faced by gig workers, creating new forms of exploitation and precarity.

To address these challenges, there is a need for a more holistic approach to gig work. Platforms must recognise their responsibility to protect gig workers’ rights and ensure their algorithms do not cause harm. There is also a need for stronger legal protections for gig workers, including the right to form unions and collective bargaining. Finally, consumers must recognise their role in supporting gig workers and not contribute to the toxic rating culture.

In conclusion, the impact of algorithms on gig workers in the platform economy is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. While algorithms can optimize the operations of digital platforms, they can also create harm to gig workers.

算法对互联网零工的影响

随着互联网经济的发展，外卖员、网约车司机等成为互联网时代的新兴从业者。他们争分夺秒，在城市车水马龙中穿梭。然而，算法限制了他们的时间，评价好坏也加剧了消费者和零工之间的冲突，使得互联网经济变得更加复杂，更加绑缚外卖员。

多等5分钟能否解决外卖员困境？如何制约对零工造成伤害的算法？新兴行业从业者的权益应该如何保障？

互联网平台经济通过数字化平台来匹配供需，其运营很大程度上依赖于算法的优化。然而，这些算法也存在局限性，无法考虑到所有与人类决策有关的复杂变量。特别是在零工经济的背景下，这可能会导致意想不到的后果。

零工面临的一个主要挑战是算法所限定的时间。在外卖行业中，算法设定了紧张的配送时间表，使得外卖员难以休息或休息不足。他们必须在规定的时间内完成一定数量的订单，这会带来极大的压力和身体上的负担。同时，算法优先考虑客户评价，这通常被用作衡量外卖员绩效的指标。这就导致外卖员被迫将客户满意度置于自己的健康之上，从而导致平台、外卖员和消费者之间的激励错位。

此外，客户的评价和评论也会对外卖员产生巨大的压力和不公平的影响。许多客户心急，容不得任何耽搁，即使外卖员的延迟超出了其控制范围，也会导致差评和负面反馈。这可能会对外卖员的收入产生重大影响，因为他们的评价和评论决定了他们是否能够接到未来的订单。这种评价体系创造了一种高压的工作环境，可能导致外卖员疲劳不堪和负面的心理影响。

作为消费者，尽管我们也受到算法的影响，但我们应该认识到零工经济中的劳动者也在受到这种影响。我们需要意识到，他们不仅是服务的提供者，更是一群有权益和尊严的人类。因此，我们应该尝试采取措施来保护他们的权益，并为他们提供更好的工作环境。

一些可能的解决方案包括，扩大配送时间的设定范围，以便为零工提供更多的休息时间；制定更加合理的绩效评价机制，避免消费者的不公平评价对零工产生负面影响；增加透明度，公开平台算法的运作机制，促进平台工作环境的透明和公正。同时，政府也应该考虑出台法规，保护零工的劳动权益。

在这个日益数字化的时代，算法对于平台经济和零工经济的影响不可避免。我们需要承认这一点，并寻求平衡，以确保所有参与者的权益得到保护和尊重。

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