Money
5 ways to increase your income (updated march 15 2025)
By Alexandra Grant
Published: 15 Mar 2025
So, you're looking to boost your income? That's awesome! Let's be honest, money worries are a real drag. I remember one time, I was stressing over rent, and literally had to eat ramen noodles for a week. Not fun! But, that experience fueled my drive to find ways to make more money and I'm sharing my insights with you. This post is all about practical strategies that worked for me—and can work for you. Buckle up!
1. The Gig Economy: Your Side Hustle Awaits
Freelancing platforms are a goldmine. I started by offering my writing and editing skills on Upwork. I was nervous at first, but once I got my first few gigs, it was awesome! You might be surprised at what skills you already possess that are in demand. Need some ideas? Try graphic design, virtual assistance, social media management. It’s all about finding something you enjoy. There's a huge demand, and it's a flexible way to earn extra cash. Remember, start small, build your profile, and watch those opportunities roll in!
person working on laptop at home | Image: Supplied
2. Unlock the Power of Your Existing Skills (and Passions!)
Do you love baking? Maybe you're a whiz at knitting, or perhaps you're a killer photographer. Turn your hobbies into money-making machines! I used to make delicious jams and sell them at local farmers' markets. It was super fun; and it generated enough money to cover some of my bills. The key is to identify your talents and figure out how to monetize them. There are countless online avenues you can use to reach customers – Etsy, for example, is an excellent platform to sell handmade crafts.
person selling goods at a farmer's market | Image: Supplied
3. Invest in Yourself (It's an Investment, Not an Expense!)
Want to earn more? Invest in skills that will make you more valuable. Think online courses, workshops, or even a degree. I personally splurged on a SEO course – best decision ever! Learning new skills, no matter how small, will dramatically impact your income. Plus, it makes you more versatile and confident which translates into better opportunities and higher rates. What skill could you learn that would significantly increase your income potential?
person taking an online course | Image: Supplied
4. Negotiate Your Salary (You Deserve It!)
This might sound scary, but it's incredibly important. Don't be afraid to advocate for what you're worth. I know, easier said than done! But trust me, it's worth the effort. Research the market rate for your position and skills. Then, when it's time for your performance review, confidently present your case, emphasizing your contributions and achievements. Don't be afraid to ask for what you want. The worst they can say is no. This is something I personally struggled with, but the more I did it, the more comfortable and confident I became.
person having a confident conversation at work | Image: Supplied
5. Rent Out Your Assets - Extra Cash, Effortlessly
Do you have a spare room? How about a car you're not always using? There are so many ways to make money from underutilized assets. Rent out your spare room on Airbnb. Or list your car on Turo, or rent out a parking spot you might not be using to local residents. Every little bit helps, right? Trust me on this—it's passive income at its finest. Just make sure you carefully vet your renters or users.
multiple income streams graphic | Image: Supplied
The Bottom Line: It's a Journey, Not a Sprint!
I hope these tips help you boost your income! Remember, making more money is a journey—it takes time, effort, and a little bit of courage. There will be bumps in the road, but never give up! I wish you all the best of luck on your financial journey. And hey, if you have any other cool ideas, please share them in the comments below! Let's support each other!
