Let me be clear: I didn’t go viral.
I didn’t win the lottery.
And I definitely didn’t sell my soul to a scammy “coach.”
I just did a few simple things — in my spare time — and walked away with $1,200 extra in my pocket last month.
Here’s exactly how I did it (and how you can, too).
💻 1. Freelance Writing – $600
I wrote 4 blog posts for 2 small businesses.
They weren’t long or super fancy — just clear and helpful.
Each post paid me $150, and I knocked them out in a few hours each.
Where I found the gigs:
- DamnJobs (obviously 😉)
- A cold email I sent to a blogger I follow
🧩 2. User Testing – $200
I tested websites and gave feedback.
Each test paid $10–$30 and took 10–20 minutes.
I did about 10 tests total last month, all while watching Netflix.
Sites I used:
- UserTesting
- TryMyUI
- Respondent (for higher-paying studies)
🎨 3. Selling Canva Templates – $250
I made some simple Instagram post templates on Canva and listed them on Etsy.
They’re still selling — even while I sleep.
What helped:
- Pretty designs
- Clear instructions
- Using trending keywords in my Etsy titles
🧾 4. Virtual Assistant Work – $150
A small Etsy shop owner needed someone to clean up her inbox and organize files.
I worked just 3 hours a week for her. That’s it.
I found her through:
- A Facebook group for female entrepreneurs
- I simply commented: “Let me know if you need help with admin work — I do this on the side!”
She DM’d me. Boom. $150.
🧠 Final Thoughts:
I didn’t hustle 24/7. I didn’t burn out.
I just picked things I enjoyed, stayed consistent, and kept it simple.
You can make $1,200 on the side — even if you work a 9–5.
Even if you’re tired.
Even if you’re starting with zero experience.
The key?
Start small. Build momentum. Keep showing up.