#8 “Recession-Proof” Side Hustles

Most people wait until it’s too late to start a side hustle when they’re desperate. That’s a dangerous game. If you have 10 minutes to spare, I’ll show you how to build a stable, recession-proof income stream before you ever need it.

Would your bank account survive a recession?

A few years ago, I thought I was safe. I had a solid 9-to-5 job, a predictable paycheck, and no real reason to worry about money. Then one day, my company announced layoffs.

There was no warning and no backup plan. I wasn’t the only one caught off guard. Many of my colleagues had no savings or other income. We had no idea what to do next, and that’s when I realized something painfully obvious: Relying on one paycheck is a massive financial risk.

Since then, I’ve built multiple income streams that protect me from ever being in that position again. And today, I want to help you do the same.

Because here’s the truth. You don’t build a lifeboat when the ship is already sinking, you build it while the waters are calm.

1. Pick a Side Hustle That Won’t Ghost You in a Recession

Let’s be real, some side hustles vanish the second the economy sneezes (looking at you, luxury candle-making business). If you want something that sticks around no matter what, you need a hustle that people will still pay for even when times are tough.

Because let’s face it, people might cancel their Netflix, but they won’t stop needing help with their taxes, fixing their websites, or keeping their pets alive.

Here’s what survives every economic meltdown:
- Freelancing: Writing, consulting, graphic design (businesses still need marketing!)
- Teaching & Coaching: People will always pay to learn a new skill or get in shape
- Reselling & Flipping: Because everyone loves a deal when money is tight
- Essential Services: Home repairs, car detailing, IT support (things people can’t ignore)

My Advice? Solve a problem that people will always have, recession or not (more SideHustles in CHAPTER 4)

So before you dive into a business that only thrives when people have extra cash (sorry, luxury dog spa owners), ask yourself:

Would people still pay for this even if money was tight?

If the answer is yes, congrats, you just picked a recession-proof side hustle.