Nurse Income Boost -- Why Side Hustles Make You a Better Nurse
Podcast Episode
Listen to "Nurse Income Boost: Why Side Hustles Make You a Better Nurse (With Joshua Condado, Jenn Davis and Colin Davis)"
Burnout is a significant concern in the nursing profession, often resulting from long hours, high-stress environments, and financial pressures. However, engaging in side hustles can provide nurses with the financial freedom and flexibility they need to alleviate these challenges. In a recent episode of Nurse Converse, host Joshua Condado, joined by Jennifer and Colin Davis, explored how side hustles can be transformative for nurses seeking balance and fulfillment.
Financial Freedom
One of the primary benefits of side hustles is the potential for increased income. Many nurses find themselves picking up extra shifts to make ends meet or achieve financial goals, which can lead to overwork and burnout. By establishing a side hustle, nurses can create an additional stream of income, reducing the reliance on extra shifts in their primary nursing roles.
Joshua, Jennifer, and Colin shared their experiences with various side hustles, including photography and real estate. These ventures not only provided supplemental income but also allowed them to maintain a connection to nursing without being solely reliant on it for financial stability. This financial cushion significantly reduces stress and the feeling of being trapped in a demanding work schedule.
Flexibility in Work Hours
Another crucial aspect of side hustles is the flexibility they offer. Nurses often work long shifts, leaving little room for personal time or self-care. Engaging in side hustles allows them to choose when and how much they work, creating a schedule that better fits their lifestyle and personal needs.
The podcast highlighted how control over their schedules empowered the hosts and alleviated burnout. For example, Colin shared that working part-time or per diem in nursing while pursuing side hustles provided a sense of freedom. This flexibility means they work in the hospital because they want to, not because they have to.
Reducing the Need for Extra Shifts
The pressure to pick up extra shifts can be overwhelming for nurses, especially when financial obligations loom large. Side hustles alleviate this pressure by providing an alternative source of income. The ability to choose when to work in the hospital, rather than feeling compelled to take additional shifts, leads to a more positive work experience.
By diversifying their income sources, nurses can avoid the burnout that often accompanies the relentless cycle of working more hours to earn more money. Instead, they can focus on providing quality care during their shifts, knowing they have other financial avenues to explore.
Addressing Nurse Burnout
Burnout among nurses is influenced by various factors, including workplace politics, job fit, and staffing issues. The podcast emphasized that while financial stress is a significant contributor, systemic challenges such as toxic work environments, high patient-to-nurse ratios, and inadequate staffing also play crucial roles.
Jennifer and Colin shared personal experiences, noting that burnout often stems from mismatched roles or unsupportive work environments. They encouraged exploring different nursing specialties or roles better aligned with individual strengths and interests. For instance, home health, telephone triage, or outpatient care can provide alternative paths that reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.
Conclusion
Side hustles offer a powerful tool for nurses seeking financial freedom and flexibility. By creating additional income streams, nurses can alleviate financial pressures, gain control over their work schedules, and reduce the need for extra shifts. Moreover, exploring different nursing specialties and alternative career paths can lead to greater job satisfaction and well-being. As Joshua, Jennifer, and Colin emphasized in the podcast, side hustles and a supportive work environment can help nurses achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life, both personally and professionally.
>>Nurses, do you have a side hustle? Join the conversation below!
Connect with Joshua on social media:
Instagram: @thelifestylecrna, @investingrnpod
TikTok: @thelifestylecrna, @investingrnpod
YouTube: @investingRN
