The Four Stages of Side Hustling (and Why They Matter)

You’ve probably felt it.

That itch to create something of your own. To explore an idea that’s been sitting in the back of your mind for months (or years). To finally try that “thing” you keep thinking about when your day job winds down.

That’s the pull of a side hustle.

But here’s the truth: most people don’t start because they think they have to go all in, make it perfect, or figure it all out upfront. That kind of pressure is paralyzing—and totally unnecessary.

Side hustling isn’t about quitting your job tomorrow or becoming an overnight success.

It’s about giving your ideas a chance to breathe—in a low-risk, purpose-driven way that fits into your real life.

And that’s exactly what this new series is about.

Why This Series Exists

This isn’t another “10 steps to six figures $$$” blueprint (most of them are just crazy and unrealistic...)

This is for people who are just starting out. People who are curious, maybe nervous, but ready to explore something meaningful outside their day job.

Whether you just want to grow your personal brand, better present yourself in this new era of lay-off culture, or you're looking to build a profitable side-hustle business—this series is for you.

Over the next six articles, I’ll walk you through the Four Stages of Side Hustling—a simple but powerful framework to help you go from idea to income without losing your mind, your identity, or your weekends.

This journey isn’t linear. It doesn’t need a business degree. And you don’t have to figure it all out today.

Let’s take a look at the four stages.

Stage 0: The Pre-Commit Phase

You’re curious but hesitant.

You love the idea of a side hustle but don’t know what it really means
You’re anxious about putting yourself out there
You’re not sure if you’re “ready”

Next step: No pressure. Just explore ideas. Talk to people. Read. Let yourself get inspired.

Stage 1: The Discovery Phase

You’ve got ideas but feel stuck.

You’re full of possibilities but unsure where to start
You’re hesitant to take action
You’re searching for clarity

Next step: Choose one idea to explore. Clarity comes from action, not overthinking.

Stage 2: The Validation Phase

You’re excited but overwhelmed.

You’re ready to move but need direction
You’re unsure if your idea will work
You want proof before investing more time or energy

Next step: Test your idea in a small, low-risk way. Share it. Talk to someone. Try a mini version of your offer.

Stage 3: The Growth Phase

You’re in motion and scaling up.

You’re taking consistent action
You’re facing real challenges
You’re focused on building something sustainable

Next step: Double down on what’s working. Let go of what isn’t. Build your rhythm and keep going.

Why These Stages Matter

Because too many people quit before they even start.

They think they need a website, a niche, a logo, a perfect plan—before they try anything. That’s backwards.

You don’t need perfection.

You need progress.

And knowing what stage you’re in gives you clarity, direction, and permission to take just one step forward.

Coming Up Next

In the next article, we’ll dive into Stage 0—the messy, emotional, and very real space where most side hustles are born.

If you’ve been stuck in “thinking about it” mode for a while, that one’s for you.

You’re not behind.

You’re exactly where you need to be.

Talk soon,

Nathan Pearce

Creator of Risk Free Side Hustle

Reclaim Your Identity

Create Something.

24. The Four Stages of Side Hustling (and Why They Matter)