Making ends meet during substance abuse recovery

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Making ends meet when you’re new to substance abuse recovery can be extremely difficult and stressful, and that in itself can lead to the temptation to fall back into old, unhealthy habits. That’s why it’s important to start with a good plan and work to have a job lined up -- even if it’s only temporary -- until you find something more permanent. 

Fortunately, there are more options than ever due to the recent boom in the gig economy, which allows individuals to essentially work for themselves. While there are a few drawbacks, such as inconsistent income, temporary or part-time gigs can help bring in cash flow while you’re looking for something else, and they may even lead you to new career opportunities. 

There are plenty of options to choose from, but how do you start? The best place is close to home. Look for a job that will allow you flexibility. For example, take care of someone’s pet, drive for a rideshare service, or rent out your home or apartment to visitors, all while making extra cash. 

Here are great tips to get started with a new gig while in recovery.

Get Into the Sharing Economy

There are many options for getting into the sharing economy, but which one is right for you? Start by researching online for jobs such as pet sitters, dog walkers, or ridesharing drivers. These will have flexible hours but may require different qualifications, so read up on each one before making a decision. Uber, Lyft, Airbnb, and Rover are all great platforms to help you get started in the sharing economy. 

Get Creative

If you have a talent for making things, head over to Etsy, where you can sell your handmade wares for a nominal fee per item. This is a great way to earn extra money because it allows you to work on your own time while busting stress with healthy creativity. Make sure to factor in the cost of materials, and set up social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to ensure that you can properly promote your shop. 

Share Your Knowledge

If you have a particular skill or are knowledgeable in a certain area, make extra money by tutoring, working as a tour guide, or giving lessons. Playing an instrument, learning a new language, and getting help with math skills are all popular tasks that people are often willing to pay others to do or teach. Look for online for tutoring gigs, like with a company like Varsity Tutors. Or, promote your tutoring service on social media. There are even tutoring opportunities that can be done online, so you never have to leave the comfort of your home. A site like Fiverr lets you market your ability to do everything from design work, to writing, to web development. 

Sites like Fiverr.com lets you market your abilities in all sorts of skills sets.

Sell Items You No Longer Want

EBay is a wonderful site if you are a collector; you can find all sorts of memorabilia there, often at a great price. When you need extra cash, it’s also a great site to make a little money off the items you no longer want. From rare books to toys still sealed in their original packaging, there’s a market for just about everything. Take clear photos of each item, price items strategically and make the listing as professional looking as possible to attract serious buyers. Craigslist is also an option for selling your unneeded items. 

When it comes to making ends meet, there’s often no one right way. For those who are facing the challenge of sobriety, trying to make ends meet can induce stress and anxiety, so take things slowly and remain patient. With a little research and planning, you can start making money in no time.

Guest post by Rufus Carter.

Thank you, Rufus! 

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