Introduction
If you’ve been a full-time side hustler for years, you’ve probably encountered this dilemma: people hear “side hustle” and immediately assume you’re filling out surveys, driving for rideshare apps, or selling handmade crafts on Etsy. But for many of us, a good side hustle is much more than that—it can be a thriving, legitimate business.
So, should you rebrand yourself? Should you stop calling what you do a “side hustle” and lean into the fact that it’s a full-fledged business? Let’s break it down.
Inspiration From Reddit
I was doing some research when I came across this interesting question. It was from a Reddit post. As I read more, I thought this needs to be answered.
That’s why I’m talking about it now. This is an important topic for people to understand. I would classified as one of those questions you need to ask before you even start a side hustle.
I can see how the people we serve would struggle with the same question. Hopefully I can shed some light on the subject and the following paragraphs.
Side Hustle Meaning: More Than Just Pocket Change
Before we dive into the branding debate, let’s clarify the term. The side hustle meaning has evolved over the years. Originally, it referred to small gigs people did outside of their 9-to-5 jobs to make extra cash.
But today, good side hustles can be anything from freelancing to running a six-figure online business.
The best side hustles aren’t just about earning a little extra; they often grow into sustainable businesses. Some people keep them as part-time income streams, while others scale them into full-time careers.
Our Reason For Existing
The line between a side hustle and a business can be blurry, which is why your branding dilemma is so valid. This is exactly where profit2prosper seeks to live.
Once a leader makes that decision to graduate from a job to some sort of side hustle, our entire ecosystem exists to help that entrepreneur define what their business is and where they want to take it. This is like our passion for living.
So, if you Hadn’t already liked our Facebook page or more importantly on Facebook group, now is a good time.
Page – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571182018962
Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/profit2prosper
Why People Struggle with the Term “Side Hustle”
If you call yourself a full-time side hustler, you might notice that:
- People don’t take your work seriously.
- They assume you’re making a small amount of money.
- They think it’s something temporary rather than a long-term endeavor.
- It’s harder to build authority in your industry.
On the flip side, saying you run a business gives off a different impression. It signals credibility, seriousness, and long-term vision. If you’ve built something sustainable, branding yourself as a business owner rather than a side hustler could open doors to more opportunities, partnerships, and respect in your field.
Side Hustle vs. Business: Which Identity Serves You Best?
Stick with “Side Hustle” If:
- You like the flexibility and casual nature of the term.
- Your audience relates more to side hustlers than business owners.
- You’re still experimenting with different income streams.
- Your brand revolves around the idea of multiple income sources rather than a singular business.
For example, if you create content about the best side hustles, calling yourself a “full-time side hustler” makes sense. It positions you as an expert in diversified income, which can attract people who want to follow in your footsteps.
Rebrand as a Business If:
- You have an established company with structured revenue streams.
- You want to attract bigger clients, sponsors, or investors.
- You feel that “side hustle” minimizes what you do.
- You’re focused on long-term business growth rather than juggling multiple smaller gigs.
In your case, running a local media company with a newsletter, blog, print publication, social channels, and events sounds more like a business than a side hustle. If your goal is to be seen as a legitimate player in the media space, calling it a business might be the better move.
The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds?
Not sure which direction to take? You don’t have to choose just one. Here’s how you can position yourself strategically:
- Use “side hustle” to attract aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start something on the side.
- Use “business” when networking with professionals and brands who might undervalue a “side hustle.”
- Phrase it contextually. For example: “I turned my side hustle into a thriving media business.”
By blending both terms, you can tap into the best aspects of each identity without fully committing to one label.
Final Thoughts: The Right Branding for Your Growth
Your brand should serve your goals. If calling yourself a “side hustler” aligns with your message and audience, keep it. But if it’s holding you back from business growth, rebranding as a business owner might be the key to unlocking new opportunities.
Ultimately, good side hustles can evolve into the best side hustles, and the best side hustles often become businesses. Whether you stick with the term or shift to a business identity, what matters most is how you position yourself to achieve your long-term vision.
So, what do you think? Will you keep calling yourself a side hustler, or is it time for a rebrand?
