My First Work from Home Business

by | Sep 9, 2010

RichSingleMomma.com Road to financial freedomThis post is a continuation of the story of my journey toward financial freedom.

When my daughter was very young and I was a new, breastfeeding mom I was torn between working and staying home to take care of my daughter. I missed her terribly and wanted to be the one to raise her rather than a daycare center. I made the decision to become a stay at home mom.

My plan was to use my desktop publishing and administrative skills to earn money. I had a great book about desktop publishing and decided to take the plunge. A good friend had given me a used computer to get started. From that day I considered myself an entrepreneur.

I had a few business cards made and created flyers to give out. I began spreading the word about my services and I was even featured in the local newspaper. The angle was basically “single mom  starts home business”.

I was flying by the seat of my pants mostly because I had very little business sense or help. I didn’t know any business owners and had no contacts. My confidence level was very low so I didn’t take the initiative to go out and meet people.

I’m sure my pricing was too low and I was not very good at marketing. Still I tried and got a couple of steady clients. After a while the financial pressure began to weigh on me. I didn’t have a clear mind or sense of security for me and my baby so I began looking for work again.

The short time I spent as a business owner taught me many lessons:
1. Have a mentor
2. Have an established network
3. Target your services and market to those people
4. Have a solid support system
5. Have a simple business plan or plan of action

Even though I made the choice to return to work, I never gave up my dream to be an entrepreneur. I’ve found ways to make money on the side over the years as I test the possibilities. I’m sure I’ll be a full-time WAHM very soon with determination and a greater sense of confidence!

[Video] My Freelance Gig, Side Hustle, or Whatever You Choose to Call It

by | Aug 29, 2010

The main way I make extra money is through Freelance Writing and Editing. It’s a very good way for people who love writing and know a lot about different subjects to make money.

I got started in freelance writing over 12 years ago. I started out editing my church bulletin and writing the newsletter. Then I ventured into resume and report writing for a few friends and clients.

After I got my degree in English and Communications I went into technical writing and editing for engineering firms. It has been a progression for me and I’m happy to say with each progression the money has gotten better. (more…)

The Money You Never Knew You Had

by | Aug 14, 2010

Single Mom Blog Richsinglemomma.comThe following is a guest post

Do you feel like you’re living hand to mouth, never having any spare cash for yourself once the bills have been paid? It may be time to step back and take stock of your finances. Many of us scrimp and save on everyday things yet pay for cable TV or broadband internet without batting an eyelid. Often we don’t realise just how much we’re paying for these “luxury essentials”, as I like to call them; perhaps because it’s usually a fixed amount per month which we’re used to paying. But no matter what your lifestyle or level of income, there are ways of making more money, or making what you have stretch further.

Clear Out and Make Cash!

The first, and perhaps the most popular, is the garage or yard sale. One woman’s junk is another woman’s treasure, as the saying goes, and it is certainly true in this case! I recommend a total clear out of your home, garage and attic, collecting up anything and everything which either hasn’t been used in the last 6 -12 months, or that you’re not likely to use again. If it’s electrical, make sure it still works and fit new fuses in the plugs if necessary (a little expenditure here will pay for itself later). Wash clothes, polish shoes and make sure all the pieces are in the board games. Ask friends and family if there’s anything they want rid of, that you can sell for them at commission.

Once you got a decent amount of ‘stock’ it’s time to prepare for your sale. You should advertise it in the local papers at least 2 weeks in advance, and see if you can get your neighbors involved too. More stalls equal more buyers! Price everything clearly and reasonably, but don’t be surprised if people will try to haggle even the cheapest items. Even getting a single quarter off the price of something makes a buyer feel like they’ve gotten a bargain! (more…)

Side Hustle Series 1.0 – Ironing Service

by | Aug 13, 2010

Despite what people thing about doing domestic work, it is still a very good way to make money on the side. This video is another idea in the Side Hustle Series.

Side Hustle Series 1.0 – Laundry Service

by | Aug 2, 2010

I’m starting a new video series based on my popular Side Hustle Series. It’s been too long since I’ve written anything on side hustles. Here is the first installment. Please comment, rate, and subscribe to my YouTube channel after you view it as well as share you own idea.

Hey! Are you following me on twitter? If not you are missing up to the minute updates in my life, recommendations, and even more side hustle ideas. Follow me @richsinglemomma. Ciao!

Single Mom Money Tips – Extra Money

by | Jul 7, 2010

Single Mom Money TipsThe Single Mom Money Tips series continues. This blog is known for the side hustle series so some of this you may know but just for reminder sake here are a few more tips on making extra money.

1.    Find a way to make extra money from your skills and talents. I talk about this on my blog and now I am talking about it again.

2.    Have multiple streams of income; it is almost a sin if you don’t.

3.    Your extra income doesn’t have to be consistent at first but enough to give you extra money for the special thing you want to do or have.

4.    Do something you are passionate about or just be able to see what people need/want and fill it.

5.    Check out Rich Single Momma for side hustle ideas.

6.    Take a class on starting a business through the local Chamber of Commerce. You don’t have to have an MBA to run a business but you can take a class.