Parents with disabilities often find that their limited mobility has a significant impact on their family’s finances. Even those who are able to make ends meet without problems may want to add a little more to their nest egg but leaving the kids unattended after school and spending time running around doing errands for business are just a couple of the things that are out of the question.
Fortunately, with the help of Internet access, there are now ways people can connect with others and work on side gigs that bring in the cash without eating up too much time. These net-savvy endeavors are perfect for disabled parents who want to make some extra cash off their skills, interests and hobbies.
Do You Have What It Takes?
Not everyone is cut out to run their own business. There are always going to be those out there who can talk a big talk, but when it comes down to it they lack the self-discipline to execute their ideas. If you were born to run a business, you possess certain traits. Risk-takers tend to do well in business because they don’t get bogged down weighing pros and cons. Entrepreneurs are never happy sitting still and live to find creative solutions to problems. They are constantly looking for ways to improve things and have the tenacity to work through hard times.
Sell Your Stuff
While big box retailers and online giants including Amazon continue to grow, there will always be a market out there for people who prefer to buy items from independent merchants. Get into the e-commerce game by selling the things you love. Whether you want to sell your own handmade goods or simply clean out the kids’ closets for a little extra scratch, there are different apps and websites available that will reach the particular audience that wants what you have.
- Etsy - handmade items, vintage, craft supplies
- eBay - almost anything
- Poshmark - gently used and new clothing
- SidelineSwap - sports gear in good condition
- Craigslist - refurbished furniture
Start a Blog
When you start a blog, you’re not as much selling a product as much as you are selling yourself. Blogging is a way to connect with others around the world who have similar interests, so you can share you knowledge, experience and expertise pertaining to any subject in the universe. The thing is, starting a blog is not going to be an automatic moneymaker. It takes time to develop a following and attract affiliates or advertisers. In addition to writing and publishing regular posts (with pictures!), bloggers are also expected to maintain an active social media presence in order to engage and attract an audience.
If you are passionate not only about your blog’s topic but also about writing about your blog’s topic, the venture will be personally rewarding even if not financially so. With that being said, reports show bloggers can make anywhere from $19,000 to $79,000 a year, so it has the possibility to be fiscally rewarding as well. But unless you have the passion to write without gaining anything in return, blogging is probably not the online business for you.
Share Your Skills
Everyone has their own special skills whether that is a knack for illustrating or a talent for taking a huge mess and organizing it. Whatever skills you have, there are ways to leverage them into a profitable opportunity. You can find freelance jobs for everything from graphic design to personal assistance via sites including Upwork and Fiverr. Or cut out the middleman and teach people how you became accomplished by selling webinars where you teach your talents.
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Parents with disabilities might not have the mobility or access to pick up a side gig outside the home. Thankfully, Internet access provides a marketplace where parents can sell items, start a blog, or share their skills for cash. Before starting a business, it’s important to evaluate whether or not you have what it takes. Successful entrepreneurs are disciplined, creative and tenacious.
