The rise of the Gig Economy

Gigs have been around forever but have gained more popularity recently when the economy took a downturn. People have been taking up gigs to supplement for income loss either from being laid off or not making enough income from their current job. Gigs allow for employees to safely transition to entrepreneurship while mitigating risk. You can be self-employed without having to create your own company by partnering with an established one. For some, it is a no-brainer and relieves people from the headache of the administrative tasks of creating your own business. It also allows people the ability to experience freedom and flexibility by working when it is convenient for them and not having to answer to another employer.

How to find gig work
You can create your own gig or jump on board with a company that offers gig work. Some people like doing gigs like ridesharing and food delivery services, while others like to create their own gigs that are geared towards their interests and abilities. I have attended many vendor markets and I am amazed by the talent of individuals out here in this world. They are handmakers who make crafts or products by hand that go on to sell them in person or online. They are also resellers who sell products made by others that have keen eye for quality and what people are looking to buy. The popularity of the gig market has given birth to online platforms such as WhatNot, TikTok shop, Uber Eats, Betterhelp, among others. There are so many opportunities for people to make money now outside of employment. It is encouraging to see people making money on their own terms now without depending on a job. We need to continue to capitalize on these opportunities.

The Ups and Downs of the Gig Economy
Now I’m not saying there are not some downsides to taking on gigs. It does take up a lot of your time and you will get reamed when filing on your personal taxes due to the additional income. However, the perks outweigh the drawbacks and what really is important is that you are working for yourself. There is nothing more satisfying than being your own boss. It will teach you so much about your capabilities and resilience. I have taken on a few gigs in my day and I give them a 10/10. They were what I needed at the time and gave this eternal employee a taste of what freedom looked like. Although I enjoyed working on a gig through an online platform, I will say that I saw it more as adjunct work than a full time position. It just was not enough income to pay all my bills and expenses. But I did enjoy the type of work and the flexibility.
​
Another thing to consider is not to overwork yourself by taking on too many gigs. Unless it is extenuating circumstances, where the rent is due or you have a light bill coming up. Then you need to do what’s necessary. But you don’t need to burn yourself out. Or cause yourself unnecessary stress. Just work each gig at your own pace that’s comfortable for you. Sometimes, I feel that people are just addicted to being busy and that it’s not about the money. It is important that you reevaluate the reason for the gig and the purpose it’s serving so you can focus on achieving that goal.
​
A gig should not feel like another obligation you have to fulfil and its burden should be light. If the gig is sucking the very life out of you, abort that mission and figure out ways you can make more money at your current position (ie. pick up extra shifts or apply for a promotion). If you are unemployed, you might have to hustle more to find a new full-time position to replace your gig work. Never lose sight that the gig should not consume you or make you feel overwhelmed. Take a break to practice self-care and rest. You can always pick the gig up later. The most important thing is to take care of you.