Side Hustle Myths I Believed (and What I Do Instead)

Before I started my gentle hustle journey, I believed a lot of myths about what a side hustle had to look like. I thought I needed to be constantly 'on', invest heaps of money, or be some kind of expert. Spoiler: I was wrong. And if you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you're not doing it ‘right’ — this post is for you.

Here are some of the biggest myths I used to believe — and the gentler truths that helped me move forward in a way that fits my life.

Myth #1: “You need to hustle 24/7 to succeed”

Truth: You need rest, rhythm, and intention. Success isn’t about constant output — it’s about sustainable progress. I learned to treat my side hustle like a garden: gentle care, regular attention, and space to grow.

💡 What I do instead: I plan just 2–3 small tasks a week using my Weekly Tracker — and I count that as a win.

Myth #2: “You have to invest money to make money”

Truth: You can start for free. Some of the best tools I use are completely free — like Canva, Cashrewards, and Swagbucks.

💡 What I do instead: I use free tools first and upgrade only if it truly adds ease or income.

Myth #3: “You need a big following to make affiliate income”

Truth: You just need the right people and the right links. I make small commissions from people clicking a link they genuinely find useful — not from going viral.

💡 What I do instead: I write honest blog posts, use Linktree, and share tools I already use and love.

Myth #4: “You have to be an expert to start”

Truth: You just have to be a step ahead of someone else. I started this blog as a beginner — and I’m still learning as I go.

💡 What I do instead: I share what’s working for me, what I’m trying, and what I wish I knew sooner. That’s more than enough.

Myth #5: “You’re not doing enough”

Truth: You are. Progress doesn’t have to be fast to be real. Gentle steps are still steps.

💡 What I do instead: I remind myself that showing up — even in small ways — is powerful. Consistency in calm moments adds up more than chaos in big bursts.

Gentle Reminder:

You don’t have to do it like everyone else. You don’t have to hustle hard. You just have to show up in a way that works for your energy, your season, and your life.

There’s no shame in going slow. There’s strength in starting softly.

— Elizabeth
Creator of The Gentle Hustle