This might turn into something bigger. Maybe a longer guide or a series. But for now here are a few tips from my experiences living in the gig economy.
The gig economy - what's that?!
As the name suggests, the gig economy is a labour market charecterised by short-term and freelance work.
This time last year I was studying for a PhD in biochemistry. It was a 4year course with a guaranteed tax-free stipend that was enough to live off until that ended in September 2016. Since then I haven't found a stable job and I've been surviving without any guaranteed money at the end of the month.
Of course many people have lived in this so-called 'gig economy' with full-time employment but it seems to have become an important socio-political issue recently for reasons I don't care to go into at this point.
How to survive
#1 Find work
You might be surprised how many jobs are out there for people who are flexible. Whatever skills you have, talk to people in the business, send emails, improve your CV and don't be afraid to go after new jobs.
#2 Be flexible
Often surviving the gig economy means working 'off the books' or cash in hand to keep things simple but make sure you register as self employed and report income for taxes so you don't get into trouble later.
#3 Get out and get fit
When you're not working professionally, it's so important you work to improve yourself in other ways so you don't become stagnant in life. Take a walk. Pick up a new hobby. Go for a jog or bike ride. You don't need to join a gym but if you can afford it could be a great way to work off excess energy.
#4 Stay social
Make sure you don't become a hermit. Of course you might feel outside the realm of the normal 9-5 routine population but don't let that isolate you. Stay in touch with friends and family and take opportunities to see them.
#5 Save, save, save
When you're living without a regular paycheck you need to be so much more careful with the money you do have. This is really a great way to learn how to economise your life. Sell the stuff you don't need and use anymore and learn how to cook delicious meals on a budget.
So there you go! A few tips for living in a world free of normal professtional responsibility! In the last year I've had six jobs, the shortest of which lasted 1 day when I covered as a fishmonger for my friend and so far it's been great. Of course not everyone can do this. I've dug into a lot of savings and had to sell some of my investments in crypto-coins but lets see if I can't do another 12months!
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