Top tips for working two jobs

There are many reasons someone might want or need to work two jobs. However, it can be hard to work two jobs and balance your time. You may feel like you're spread too thin or don't have enough time for either obligation. But with a little bit of planning, you can make it work.
While the challenges of working two jobs may seem daunting, it is possible to find a balance. In this article, we'll offer some tips for working two jobs and discuss popular side gigs for those who’d like to earn some extra money.
What are the benefits of working two jobs?
While there is sometimes a negative stigma attached to working two jobs, it can have a lot of benefits. The most obvious benefit is that you'll earn more money.
If you're struggling to make ends meet or want to save up for a specific goal, working two jobs can help you reach your financial goals faster. Nearly 7 in 10 remote workers have multiple jobs to help pay off debt and gain extra spending money.
Another big benefit is gaining new skills by working in different environments. You may also find that you have more energy when you're doing something you're passionate about. Around 5% of women aged 25 to 54 are multiple jobholders, taking on side hustles often while juggling other responsibilities.
Working two jobs can help improve your financial situation and develop your skillset. You'll just need to find a balance, so you don’t work too much and neglect your personal life. Many people who work two jobs find that they have to get creative with their time management.
What are the drawbacks of working two jobs?
In addition to the many benefits of working two jobs, there are also some drawbacks you should be aware of. One of the biggest challenges is that you'll have less free time. If you're working two full-time jobs, you may not have much time for your personal life. This can lead to feeling stressed and even burned out.
You may also find it difficult to advance in your career if you're holding down two jobs. It can be hard to network and attend industry events when you're working all the time. This can make it difficult to get promoted or move up in your field.
Some signs of burnout you should watch out for include:
Feeling irritated or having a short temper
One of the most obvious signs of burnout is feeling irritable or having a short temper. If you find yourself being short with your co-workers or loved ones, it may be a sign that you're overwhelmed.
Decreased productivity
If you're struggling to get your work done or meet deadlines, you may be burned out. You'll have less energy and motivation to get things done when you're burned out.
Loss of interest in work
Another key sign of burnout is losing interest in your work. If you used to enjoy your job but now find it hard to muster up the motivation to go to work, it's a sign that you may be burned out.
If you're thinking about working two jobs, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. While there are some advantages, you should also be aware of the challenges you may face.
How can I balance two jobs at once?
Working two jobs can be a great way to make extra money, but balancing your work and personal life is important. It can be difficult to multitask and juggle two different job schedules. You may face even more stress if you commute between two jobs or have family obligations.
If you've decided that working two jobs is the right decision for you, here are a few tips to keep your work and life in balance:
Create a schedule
One of the best ways to balance two jobs is to create a schedule and stick to it. This will help you plan your time and avoid conflicts between your two job schedules. You should also try to build in some flexibility if one job runs late or you have a last-minute obligation.
Purchase a physical calendar
You may want to use a planner or online calendar to keep track of your schedule. If you like to have a physical representation of what's going on, purchase a day planner to keep track of your work schedule for each job. This will help you stay organized and avoid double-booking yourself. You can use a whiteboard or corkboard to make your own calendar or buy one at a store.
Set priorities
When you're working two jobs, it's important to set priorities. This will help you focus on what's most important and avoid getting overwhelmed. For example, you may want to prioritize your full-time position over your side hustle.
Create a budget
It's important to know how much you're bringing in each month and where your money is going. This will help you avoid overspending and getting into debt. You should also try to save some of your extra income from each job to reach your financial goals.
Set aside time to recharge
Working two jobs can be draining, both mentally and physically. It's important to make time for yourself, even if it's just a few hours each week.
Schedule your downtime in your calendar alongside your work commitments. You can use this time to relax, exercise, or spend time with loved ones. Consider taking a break from social media and try watching TV or reading a book instead. Taking some time for yourself can help you avoid burnout.
Take care of your health
Working two jobs can take a toll on your physical and mental health. It's important to eat healthy meals and exercise regularly. This doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym. A short walk outside is all that’s needed if your schedule is busy.
Getting enough sleep is important if you’re juggling two jobs. This can help you avoid fatigue and stay focused during the day. Seven to eight hours of sleep each night is ideal.
You should also make time for relaxation and hobbies you enjoy. Talk to your doctor or care provider if you're feeling overwhelmed.
Ask for support from friends or family
If you're struggling to manage two jobs, ask for help from friends or family. They may be able to watch your children while you're working or help you with transportation. Having a support system can make working two jobs easier. Remember that it's okay to ask for help when you need it.
Communicate with your employer
If you're having trouble balancing your two jobs, it's important to communicate with your employer. Let them know if you're feeling overwhelmed or if you need help managing your workload. They may be able to offer flex-time or other accommodations that will make it easier for you to balance work and life.
In summary, working two jobs can help boost your income and improve your skills. However, it's important to find a balance and to make sure you don’t neglect your own needs. You can do this by planning out your schedule, making time for yourself, and setting priorities.
If you're struggling to balance your two jobs, communicate with your employer to see if they can offer any accommodations. Speaking up can help you find a solution that works for you and your employer.
Don't underestimate the importance of taking care of yourself when you're working two jobs. Be sure to make time for your personal life, even if it's just a few hours each week. This will help you avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Best side gigs and part-time jobs
If you currently work full-time or just want to make some extra cash on the side, you may be wondering what the best side gig or part-time job is for you.
Before applying for a new job, it's important to consider your skill set and what you're looking for in a side gig. You should try and find a balance between something that you're good at and something that you enjoy.
Let’s take a look at some of the best part-time jobs and side gigs to bridge your income:
Delivery driver
If you have a valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle, you may want to consider becoming a delivery driver. This is a great gig job to make extra money on your own schedule. You can sign up with companies like DoorDash or Postmates to start making money as a delivery driver.
Rideshare driver
Rideshare drivers use their own cars to pick up and drop off passengers. This is a great way to make extra money, especially if you're already driving for errands or commuting regularly. You can sign up with companies like Uber or Lyft to start driving passengers around town.
Pet sitter
If you love animals, why not get paid to care for those in your local area? Pet sitting is a great way to make some extra cash while spending time with animals. You can create a profile on Rover to start connecting with pet owners in your area who need help caring for their pets.
Data entry
If you're looking for a side job you can do without a car, data entry may be a good option for you. This job involves inputting data into computer systems and databases. You can find remote data entry jobs in a variety of industries.
Tutor
If you're knowledgeable about a particular subject, you may want to consider becoming a tutor. You can help students of all ages with their studies in subjects like math, science, and English. You can find tutoring jobs through companies like Chegg or Tutor.com.
Working two jobs is a great way to improve your financial situation and skillset. It's important to find a position that is a good fit for your skills and interests. A side gig should be something you're good at and enjoy.
You should also be aware of the tax requirements for working two jobs. You may need to file a separate tax return for each job you hold. Be sure to keep track of your income and expenses to accurately report your earnings during tax season.
Stay balanced while working two jobs
Working two jobs may boost your income, but a healthy work-life balance is essential to maintaining your health and wellbeing. When our bodies and minds are out of balance, it can lead to physical and mental health problems.
To avoid burnout, don’t forget to take time for yourself every day, even if it’s just a few minutes. Now that you know how to manage two jobs, you can focus on finding the right balance for yourself.
If you need help finding a second job or need more tips on balancing multiple responsibilities, check out the Getting Hired Resource Center.