What to Know Before Taking a Second Job
Times are tough and money is tight. Tight finances are usually the reason behind seeking a second job. Sometimes the pay you get from a single job just isn’t cutting it, especially if your hours have been reduced.
Don’t just decide to take a second job without giving it some serious thought though. There are a few key things you should consider before you do.
Make Sure You Have the Time
At its core, a job is a way to trade your time for money. You have a limited amount of time, so make sure you have enough available time to take a second job before you sign on for one. Look at your current schedule.
See what time is already blocked out for sleep, your current job, commuting, household duties, and any other obligations you may have. From there, you’ll get an idea of what time you have available. You may find it’s easier to squeeze a part-time job in rather than a full-time job, at least in the beginning.
Watch Out for Burnout
Putting too much on your plate is a sure way to experience burnout. It may not happen right away, but it’s inevitable if you aren’t careful about how much you take on. Watch out for signs of burnout. If you experience a reduction in your productivity and performance, difficulty concentrating, a lack of creativity, or feel fatigued, anxious, or detached, you’re burning out and need to reduce your load.
Take steps to avoid experiencing burnout. Setting boundaries can help you reduce the likelihood of burnout. You might limit the hours or days you’re willing to work or commit to not responding to work-related calls and texts during non-working hours.
Avoid Breaking Legal Non-Compete Agreements
Some jobs require their employees to sign non-compete agreements as part of their onboarding process. These agreements state that you cannot be employed by a competitor or compete with the business after your employment ends (or during your period of employment) within certain geographic and time limits, a common stipulation. While the laws governing legally binding non-compete agreements vary from state to state, it’s always best to do what you can to avoid breaking the agreement when possible. If you choose to take on another job, make sure you aren’t violating an agreement.
Ultimately, you’re the only one who can decide if taking a second job is a wise idea or not. Think carefully about your current income and how it compares to your expenses. You may get the financial breathing room you need by restructuring your budget. If that’s not enough, evaluate the impact that taking a second job would have on your life. Once you’ve thoughtfully weighed your options, you’ll know the best way to move forward.
Did you enjoy reading this article? Here’s more to read. Moves to Make When Taking a Job in a New State
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