Whatever the reason, starting your own business or even just a business on the side could be beneficial to your lifestyle.

Below are a few ideas on what people in the 21st century are doing:

• An event planning and management business. This one doesn’t require much start-up capital and can be done as your side business. To do this you will need to be detail-oriented, organised, and have excellent networking skills. The job will, however, require long working hours when planning an event.

• A laundry and dry cleaning business. These services are in demand, especially in cities with universities, as most of the time students would prefer going to a laundromat if their residence does not offer cleaning services. With this you will need to provide specialised services like washing expensive garments, curtains, bed linen, and so on.

• Open a car wash. With this business you will require a good location, preferably near a lot of offices as employees delight in knowing their car can be washed while they work. This business only requires high-pressure hoses, soap, sponges, and towels. You will, however, need to register your business with SARS.

• Open a sports-watching centre. With so many South African athletes excelling across the world, many supporters look to watch these games surrounded by equally passionate supporters. All you will need is an HD projector with a big screen, comfortable seats, and a sound system for the real experience of watching live matches.

• Pet sitting or walker, depending on your neighbourhood, is a great option for an extra income, many pet owners are open to the option of having someone walk their dog daily as they might live busy lives. Reliability in your service and clear communication are the cornerstones of success in pet care, such as showing up at the agreed times and sending updates or photos of pets regularly.

Other ideas can include, remote jobs that are not time-restricted, such as:

• Social media management.

• Graphic designing.

• Grocery delivery services.

• YouTube vlogging.

• Blogging.

• Catering services.

• Photography.

• CV writer.

• Tour guide.

Taking control of your lifestyle and income has never been difficult, all you need is enough research and a dream.

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