Topic – Getting Started/Beginners
Post Reading Time – 18 Minutes
Is starting an online business while working full time even possible? Trying to balance a full time job while trying to build an online business can come across as almost impossible to many people. I mean, you’re already pressed for time, and the thought of adding another commitment might seem too much. But what if I told you that many people, including myself, have actually made it work?
I mean, if you’re working full time, and you start an online business, it will reduce any financial risk while you build something from the ground up that might eventually replace your 9-to-5 job. Instead of getting into it with no safety net in place, you can build your business at your own pace, test your ideas out, and figure out what works before you ever think about leaving your job.
If you’ve been thinking about starting an online business but don’t know where to start or how to make it work with your schedule, keep on reading. I’m going to tell you exactly how to do it without burning yourself out or questioning yourself every step of the way.
Can You Start an Online Business While Working Full Time? Absolutely!
Starting an online business while working full time is absolutely possible. In fact, for most people, it’s the best way to do it. Quitting your job with no backup plan is always going to be a big risk, and there’s no reason to put yourself in that position.
Keeping your job while building your business gives you your financial security, the time to test things out, and the chance to grow at your own pace without the pressure of needing immediate results.
A lot of people think they don’t have the time to start a business on the side, but you’d be surprised how much you can get done with a good plan and consistent effort. Whether you just want some extra income or you’re planning to go full time in the future, it can be done and I’ll show you how.
See your Full Checklist Here For Starting A Business While Working Full Time!!
What You’ll Learn From This Post
- You Don’t Have To Quit Your Job To Start A Business – Keeping your paycheck while building your online business gives you the security and time to figure things out.
- Some Businesses Go Better With A Full Time Job – Freelancing, e-commerce, and content creation are a good choice because they don’t require you to have a set schedule.
- Managing Your Time Right Makes A Big Difference – Even an hour a day adds up over time. The trick is focusing on what actually moves your business forward.
- You Can’t Do Everything On Your Own – Automating tasks and getting help where it’s needed stops you from wasting time on things that don’t matter.
- Success Comes From Sticking With It – The people who do really well aren’t always the most clever, but they’re the ones who keep going when others quit.
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Why Starting an Online Business While Working Full Time Makes Sense
Starting an online business while still working is a good move for a lot of reasons.
The biggest one, in my opinion, is that your financial stability stays in place. Since you’ve already got a paycheck coming in, you don’t have to rely on your business to pay the bills right away.
You can even reinvest in it, make any adjustments, and build it properly without the stress of needing the instant profits. On top of that, you still have the benefits of your job like health insurance and retirement contributions, which you’d have to cover yourself if you went all in too soon.
Having a steady income also takes the pressure off you. You’re not stuck and having to make desperate decisions just to scrape by. You can test out different things, see what works, and take your time without constantly worrying about money.
Also, working full time keeps you connected to people in your industry. Some of them might even be able to offer you advice, support, or maybe even turn into customers later on.
A lot of people think they need to quit their job to start a business, but that’s just not true.
If anything, having limited time forces you to work harder and better. You have to concentrate on what actually moves your business forward instead of wasting hours on things that don’t matter.
That alone gives you an edge.
How to Start an Online Business While Working Full Time
If you want to start an online business while you’re working full time, it’s totally possible. But if you go in without any sort of plan, you’ll end up frustrated, burned out, and just wasting time. The important thing is to think things through from the start.
Here’s how to do it without messing up your job or overwhelming yourself.
1. Make Sure Your Employer Allows It
This may not apply to everyone, but before you start, check your work contract.
Some companies have non compete agreements or rules about employees running their own businesses. You don’t want to spend months building something only to find out later that it breaks your company’s policies.
Also, keep your business separate. Don’t work on it during company time or use work resources. If you’re unsure about what’s actually allowed, talking to your boss or a legal professional might be a good idea.
That said, this isn’t something to stress over too much. Just make sure you’re not stepping on any toes, and you should be fine.
2. Pick the Right Business Idea
Not every business makes sense to get into when you already have a full time job. You need something that works with your schedule, doesn’t need a ton of money upfront, and has good potential to grow.
Ask yourself.
- What am I good at?
- What do people already pay for?
- What business can I start without quitting my job?
Good options include.
- Freelancing (writing, graphic design, programming, consulting)
- Selling products online (dropshipping, print-on-demand, digital products)
- Content creation (blogging, YouTube, affiliate marketing)
- Coaching or online courses (teaching something you already know)
3. Figure Out Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Before jumping into anything, take a step back and look at the bigger picture.
What do you bring to the table? What might slow you down? This is where a SWOT analysis can help you.
- Strengths – What skills or experience do you have to give you an advantage?
- Weaknesses – Where do you lack experience or resources?
- Opportunities – Is there a demand for what you’re offering?
- Threats – What could make things harder to succeed?
Being honest about this helps you to avoid mistakes and concentrate on what matters.
4. Set Clear Goals (Not Just Random Ones)
Saying “I want to make money online” isn’t a real plan. You need to set out specific goals so you actually make progress.
Instead of “I want a successful business”, try “I will launch my website and get my first five customers in three months.”
The more specific and realistic your goals are, the easier it will be for you to stay on track.
5. Manage Your Time So You Don’t Burn Out
Balancing a business and a full time job means you have to use your time wisely. If you don’t plan things out, you’ll either burn out or get nowhere.
Here’s what helps.
- Block out time in your schedule – early mornings, late nights, weekends – whatever works. Stick to it.
- Use your downtime wisely – Listen to business podcasts or brainstorm some ideas when you’re commuting, exercising, or on lunch breaks.
- Focus on what actually matters – Skip the busywork and spend time on things that move your business forward.
Even an hour a day adds up if you stay consistent.
Starting an online business while keeping your full time job isn’t easy, but plenty of people have done it successfully.
If you want to hear more tips on how to manage both without burning yourself out, this article on launching a business while keeping your day job shares some useful advice.
6. Stop Doing Everything Yourself
Trying to do every little thing on your own will slow you down. Figure out what can be automated or outsourced so you can concentrate on what actually needs your attention.
- Hire freelancers – Get help with website design, content, or bookkeeping.
- Use automation tools – Schedule social media posts, emails, and other repetitive tasks.
Less time wasted on small tasks = more time for the stuff that grows your business.
7. Keep Learning and Adjusting as You Go
No business is perfect from day one. You’ll make mistakes, change strategies, and learn as you go. The important thing is to stay open to improvement.
- Listen to your customers – Their feedback will tell you what’s working and what’s not.
- Pay attention to what’s happening in your industry – Keep up with what’s changing so you don’t fall behind.
- If something isn’t working, fix it – Don’t be stubborn about a strategy that isn’t getting results.
The people who succeed are the ones who keep adapting until they figure it out.
When Should You Go Full Time With Your Online Business?
Figuring out when to quit your day job and go all in on your business is a big decision, and one that you shouldn’t take lightly. There’s no perfect answer for this, but there are a few signs that can tell you when it might be time.
The biggest sign is that your business is making enough money to cover both your personal and business expenses. If you’re relying on it consistently and not just having random good months, that’s a strong sign you might be ready.
Having some savings in place is also a good thing. Even if your business is doing well, there will be slow months. If you’ve got a financial cushion behind you, making the move will feel a lot less risky.
Another thing to think about is your time. If your business is growing, but you keep missing out on good opportunities because you’re stuck at work, it might be time to make it your main focus.
This isn’t something to rush. Look at all of the numbers, think things through and be honest with yourself.
Could you even cut back your hours at your full time job so you can put a little more into your business? Something to think about.
Additional Beginner Info & Resources
Business Ideas That Work Well With a Full Time Job
As I’ve said, starting a business doesn’t mean you have to quit your job. There are plenty of ways to start building something on the side without it interfering with your main income.
Here are a few ideas that actually work.
- Freelancing – Do you have a skill that people pay for? Writing, design, programming, consulting? Also known as freelancing, this lets you take on extra work when you have time and build up clients as you go.
- Selling Products Online – Whether it’s dropshipping, print-on-demand, or digital products, e-commerce can be run in your spare time without you needing to deal with inventory.
- Blogging or YouTube – If you like writing or making videos, you can start a blog or channel and make money through ads, affiliate marketing, or even selling your own products.
- Online Courses or Coaching – Do you know something which other people want to learn? Turn it into a course or a coaching program and sell it online.
- Affiliate Marketing – If you already have a blog, a website, or a social media following, you can earn commissions by promoting products that you believe in.
- Social Media Management – Businesses need help managing their social media, and most of them don’t want to hire full time staff for it. If you know how to create content and engage an audience, this can be a good side job.
- Online Tutoring – Teaching languages, school subjects, or even hobbies can be a flexible way to make extra money, and there are many platforms out there to help you get started.
Extra Tips for Starting an Online Business While Working Full Time
Starting an online business while you’re working full time is one thing. Keeping it going and making it grow is something else.
Here are a few extra things I want to mention that can help you stay on track.
Stick to a Routine
Setting aside some time for your business every day, even if it is just a little, helps you keep things moving. A routine, no matter how big or small, builds momentum and makes it easier to track your progress.
You might start with short sessions and increase them as your business starts to pick up.
Track Your Progress
Try to pay attention to what’s working and what’s not. Keeping track of both your wins and setbacks will help you see what needs changing. Checking your analytics, getting some feedback, and writing things down stops you from wasting time on things that are not paying off.
Surround Yourself With the Right People
It helps to make connections with other people who are also building something on the side. Online groups, networking events, or even talking to people in your chosen field can make a huge difference.
Sometimes just knowing other people are going through the same thing as you can give you the motivation you need to keep going.
Keep Learning and Be Ready to Make Changes
Nothing stays the same forever. Times change, trends come and go, industries go up and down, and what worked last year might not work now. So, try to stay ahead by learning new skills, reading up on your industry, or taking courses.
The more you know, the easier it is to handle any challenges when they come up.
Taking Your Knowledge Further
If you want to get better at running your business, it is important for you to keep learning. The more you know, the easier it is to make better decisions and avoid mistakes.
Books, podcasts, and real world case studies can give you information into what actually works. Seeing how others have built their businesses can help you figure out what to try and what to avoid.
Here are some things that might be worth looking into.
- Marketing – Learning how to promote your business properly can make a big difference.
- Customer service – Keeping customers happy means more repeat business and better word of mouth.
- Industry trends – Staying aware of what’s changing keeps you from falling behind.
It’s also a good idea to check in with yourself every now and then. Take a step back, look at what’s working, and be honest about what’s not.
Being self critical will help you to make small changes as you go, and this will save you time and effort in the long run. Just don’t be overcritical. There’s no need to beat yourself up over things, certainly not early on anyway.
The more you learn and improve, the easier it will be to grow your business the right way.
Your Checklist for Starting an Online Business While Working Full Time
Now that you know what’s involved, here’s a simple checklist to help you get started the right way without overcomplicating things.
| Check Your Work Contract | Make sure your employer allows side businesses and that you’re not violating any policies. |
|---|---|
| Choose a Business That Fits Your Schedule | Pick something that works around your job, like freelancing, e-commerce, or content creation. |
| Set a Clear Goal | Don’t just say you want a business. Decide on something specific, like getting your first five customers in three months. |
| Make Time for It | Find at least an hour a day or a few hours a week to work on your business, and stick to it. |
| Focus on What Actually Moves Things Forward | Skip the busywork and concentrate on things that bring in money or grow your audience. |
| Automate and Outsource When Possible | Use tools to handle repetitive tasks and don’t be afraid to hire some help when you need it. |
| Keep Learning and Adjusting | Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t, and make changes as they’re needed. |
| Stick With It | Progress might be slow at first, but consistency is what separates those people who succeed from those who quit. |
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What’s the easiest online business to start?
It depends on what you’re good at and what interests you. The easiest businesses are usually the ones that don’t take much money to start, like freelancing, blogging, or affiliate marketing.
You can start small, fit it around your schedule, and grow it at your own pace.
Is it too late to start an online business?
No, not even close. The internet is always changing, and new opportunities pop up all the time. Some markets are competitive, but there’s always a way in if you take the time to find an angle that works.
How many hours a week should I put into my business?
That’s up to you, but consistency matters more than the number of hours. Even if you only have a few hours a week, using them wisely will move things forward.
Some people manage with 5-10 hours, while others go for 15-20 if they’re serious about making faster progress.
Is it hard to start an online business?
It’s not necessarily hard, but it does take effort. There’s a lot to learn, and balancing it with a full time job can be difficult sometimes. The trick is to start with a plan, concentrate on what matters, and keep going even when things take longer than expected.
Which online business makes the most money?
It depends on what you do with it. E-commerce and online courses can make good money once they get going. Blogging and affiliate marketing take longer but can bring in steady income. The best one is the one you’re willing to stick with and actually build.
Final Thoughts
Starting an online business while keeping your full time job isn’t always easy, but if you go about it the right way, it’s one of the best moves you can make.
You get to build something for yourself while keeping your financial security, giving you the time to test things out and let it grow.
Just know that it won’t happen fast or overnight. It takes effort, consistency, and a bit of patience. Some days will be frustrating, and some nights will run late, but every bit of progress you make adds up in the end.
My Experience With Starting a Business While Working Full Time
When I first got started with my online business, I was working full time. I know exactly how difficult it can be. I know all about the long working hours, sometimes overtime for extra money, and family responsibilities. Finding the time to work on a business when my life was already hectic wasn’t easy.
Some days, I only had 40 to 45 minutes to spare, and that just had to be enough. But the important thing was that I had a plan. I knew exactly what I needed to do each day, no matter how much or how little time I had.
In my opinion, if you don’t have a schedule, you are setting yourself up to fail. Having two hours means nothing if you waste it deciding what to do. But even just 40 minutes of focused work is progress, and progress is what matters.
Starting a business while working full time isn’t easy, but if you make a schedule and stick to it, you will make progress. One step at a time.
The main thing is to keep going.
The people who succeed aren’t always the ones with the best ideas. They’re the people who stick with it long enough to make it work.
Keep trying, and one day you’ll look up and realize your side business has become your full time thing.
I hope this post has helped you out if you are starting an online business while working full time.
Thank you, and please leave your thoughts and comments below.
Chris
Wealthy Affiliate
This is where my journey into the online world began, and it’s still the only community I trust for genuine, high quality guidance on building a business and earning money online.
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If you’re ready to start your online business, this is the perfect place to begin.
I highly recommend Wealthy Affiliate for its unmatched support and resources.
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Balancing a full-time job while trying to build an online business is something I for sure can relate to.
I have found that setting myself smaller, realistic goals has helped me stay on track, especially when work gets unexpectedly busy, which it does from time to time.
What different tools have you found most helpful for staying organized? I have used a simple diary in the past and that seemed to work OK.
Also can I ask, do you have any routines that help you keep making progress without burning out?
Hi Slavisa, I get what you’re saying, yes. When work gets really busy, it’s very easy to let the business slip a little, but having smaller, realistic goals, like you say, helps.
For staying organized, I’ve always tried to keep things simple.
A basic notebook or a diary has worked well for me too, and I still use one to this day. I just write down what needs doing for each day so I don’t waste time having to figure it all out when I sit down to work.
I try to plan everything out a month in advance and make any adjustments when I need to.
As for routines, I think the most important thing is having consistency. Even if it’s just 1 hour a day, as long as you stick with it, you’ll see progress. Burnout happens when you push too hard too fast, so keeping things steady and manageable is the way to do it.
How have you been handling it so far?
Thanks for getting in touch!
Chris
Hi
Working a full-time job while trying to build a business on the side isn’t easy, but I really like how you’ve explained things here. Keeping on top of your time management, setting goals that actually make sense, and using automation where possible definitely makes a difference.
I think it’s so easy to feel like there’s too much to do, but breaking things down into smaller steps helps.
For me, setting aside specific times to work on my business.. whether it’s in the mornings, during lunch, or in the evenings has helped keep things moving.
Do you have any tips for staying motivated when you’re feeling low on energy?
Angela M 🙂
Hi Angela,
Yes, when you’re trying to juggle both, I know it’s easy to feel like there’s never enough time, but breaking things down into smaller steps really does help. If you try to take on too much at once, it just gets to be too much.
I have also found that having set times to work on my business makes a big difference. Even if it’s just an hour in the morning or a bit of time in the evening, keeping that routine helps things move forward without it feeling like a massive task.
As for motivation when my energy is low, I think the important thing is keeping things realistic. If I’m feeling drained, I’ll concentrate on other smaller, easier tasks rather than pushing through something complicated. That way, I’m still making progress without burning myself out.
Does this help you?
Thanks for your comment!
Chris