Managing academics and a side hustle at the same time has not been an easy task, but with discipline and proper planning, I’ve found a balance that worked for me.
My dad is a peasant farmer and the income from his farm produce isn't enough to carter for all the needs I have in school and outside school. My mom is not around to help out too. So he sponsors me all by himself in school. Seeing this, I decided to take up a side husle and the first I did was home lessons.
My lectures usually begin by 7 a.m. and run till around 4 p.m., so I had to make good use of my evenings. I picked up a young boy for the home lesson and his mother paid me ₦30,000 a month, and the lesson held three days a week. Before accepting the offer, I carefully studied my timetable and picked out three days that are not too hectic. That way, my studies do not clash with the lesson time. As soon as my lectures end, I rush home, rest a little, then pick the boy up from his mother’s shop and start the lesson immediately. Most times, we finish before it gets too late, so I still have some time left to review my school notes or prepare for the next day’s classes.
Apart from giving lessons, I also do fashion designing. However, I don’t engage in it regularly because it demands more time and concentration. I prefer doing my sewing mostly at night when there is steady light. That’s when I can work freely without power disrruption.
Sometimes it gets tiring managing all these, but I remind myself of my goals and of the fact that my dad doesn't have enough to give to me and so I need to help myself as he are supporting with the little he can. The little income I make helps me handle some personal needs, and that alone keeps me motivated. Balancing schoolwork and side hustles has taught me responsibility, time management, and the value of hard work. I’ve learned that with focus and determination, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
