DO THE Hustle

Money is always top of mind at this time of year. A side hustle can help build your wealth and give you extra cash to spend

- SYLVIA WALKER

There are loads of side hustle ideas on the internet, but how many of them are any good? Ideas such as 'write a book' or 'become an influencer' sound cool, but in reality, they can be a very difficult way to make money. It's no fun wasting your time and energy, so focus on ideas that will work.

A good side hustle can provide you with more than just extra cash. According to Ramit Sethi, author of I Will Teach You to Be Rich, it also gives you security in case your full-time job dries up. It could even become your full-time job if it's successful. But, according to Ramit, the most important aspect is that a side hustle gives you extra money to invest and get rich.

Here are eight ideas that can make real money.

1. WEBSITE AND APP TESTER

Machines haven't quite taken over yet! Humans still need to test how well technology works, allowing companies to improve their products or services. Your honest thoughts can earn you money as a tester for websites and apps on platforms such as usertesting.com, userpeek.com or testerwork.com. You'll have to register and do a short test before being approved. Tasks usually take less than 30 minutes, and you can work when it suits you.

2. BE PAID FOR YOUR EXPERTISE

If you are an expert in a particular field, earn money answering people's questions. Experts in many areas such as cars, computers, social media, wellness and home improvement are in demand. There's a stringent verification process, and you'll earn a percentage of the fee that users are charged when asking a question. You select the questions you wish to answer and when you want to work. Look at prestoexperts.com or justanswer.com.