Beating Broke

Personal Finance from the Broke Perspective

The Hustle Is Real: What No One Tells You About Working a Second Job to Get Out of Debt

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things you need to know about having a second job
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Working a second job to pay off your debt is no easy feat. For many, this is the only way to comfortably pay off their debt, especially since wages haven’t increased with inflation. NBC News reported that inflation outpaced wage growth for most workers in late 2021 and early 2022. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in February 2025, 9 million Americans, or 5.5% of the civilian workforce, were working multiple jobs, marking the highest level since 2009.

The rising cost of household essentials has taken a toll on many families, pushing them further into debt. If this sounds similar to your situation, you may be considering working a second job. Before you start your search for an additional job, here are things that people won’t tell you about working a second job to get out of debt.

You Might Get Burnt Out

No one will tell you how fast you will get burnt out managing more than one job. Demanding schedules may leave you with less sleep and more stress daily. Make sure that you have an outlet to unwind and relax when you have downtime, or you may find yourself stressed and irritable more often. Self-care becomes even more important when you have a second job.

You Won’t Have Balance

You may struggle to find any work-life balance. You also might miss out on many important events with your friends and family because you don’t have adequate time off. This may also strain your relationships over time. At some point, this might not be sustainable for you.

You Still May Struggle to Pay Off Debt

You’ll have to be cognizant of lifestyle creep if you’re earning more. Managing your expenses and budgeting is very important when trying to pay down debt. Make sure that you have a plan as to how you’ll pay down your debt with your additional income, otherwise, you may not spend that additional money wisely.

Decline in Performance

If you’re stretched too thin, your work performance may decline. This could put both of your jobs at risk. Make sure that you are able to devote enough time to both of your jobs before taking on additional commitments. You’ll also have to consider if having a second job is a conflict of interest. Make sure to contact your HR Department if you are unsure, especially if you have a non-compete clause in your employment contract.

Opportunity Cost

The time that you spend on a second job could be used to increase your knowledge and skills, helping you grow in your primary job. You may be limiting your long-term career growth if you choose to have more than one job.

You’ll Pay More in Taxes

If you enter a different tax bracket because of your increased income, you’ll probably pay more in taxes. Make sure that you are filing your taxes appropriately if you have more than one job.

What are some reasons that you feel like you need a second job? How do you handle more than one job? Let us know your experience in the comments.

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Why Is Getting Out of Bed So Hard When You’re Broke

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Why Is Getting Out of Bed So Hard When You’re Broke

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If you’re broke, you may be struggling to get out of bed. The weight of financial stress can be overwhelming, making it hard to find the motivation to start your day. Every morning may bring a fresh wave of anxiety about unpaid bills, job insecurity, or the uncertainty of how you’ll make it through the week. The mental, emotional, and physical toll of financial struggles can leave you feeling drained before the day even begins. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Here are some key reasons why financial hardship can make it so difficult to get out of bed and what you can do to push through.

Exhaustion

You may be working several jobs to try and make ends meet. You may be pushing your body to the brink and may not be able to get proper nutrition to refuel. Physical exhaustion can also weigh on your mental health. Additionally, you may be stressed about your ability to pay bills or your rent. Worry and stress can also contribute to poor sleep, which can make the problem even worse.

Lack of Motivation

If you feel like you can’t get ahead financially, you may have given up. Lack of motivation can contribute to your inability to get out of bed. It’s hard to feel motivated if you feel like the cards are stacked against you, but remember that you can make small positive changes every day.

Depression

Laying In Bed
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Financial issues can weigh on your mental health. You may also be isolating yourself from friends and loved ones if you don’t have the means to go out with them. Such social isolation can be a trigger for mental health issues. You may be experiencing depression as a result. If you feel hopeless, be sure to seek help from a mental health professional.

Rejection

Getting up when you’re broke may mean facing more rejection from job applications. You may feel that it’s better to stay in bed than be rejected again. It’s important to remember though that rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth. You’re more than a job title or your financial hardships.

How to Make a Change

While it may seem difficult, setting small goals can help you get out of bed. Making a list of goals or things you’d like to accomplish each day can keep you on track. Be sure to celebrate each time you check something off your list. Setting a routine can also be helpful, especially when you’re struggling to get out of bed. This might include incorporating things that help you release dopamine, like exercising. If you schedule your day, you’ll be more likely to get out of bed.

It’s also important to seek support from family, friends, and a mental health professional if you’re struggling. Although it may seem difficult now, there are better days to come.

How do you get out of bed when faced with financial hardship?

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New City, New Life? 9 Financial Struggles You’ll Face (And How to Survive Them)

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Moving to a new city comes with excitement, but also unexpected expenses. From relocation costs to housing, taxes, and a higher cost of living, your budget may take a hit. So how can you stay financially stable during the transition? Here’s how to navigate the challenges and keep your finances in check.

1. High Moving Costs

Moving costs, especially if you are moving far can be a financial burden. If you are moving for work, ask your employer about a relocation package to help offset some of these costs. Otherwise, you may want to consider doing some of the moving yourself by renting a U-Haul truck or packing up your belongings yourself. This can help you save a good amount of money.

2. Housing Costs

Housing costs are usually one of the biggest financial stressors when you move. You may be stretched thin trying to provide money for rent including a security deposit. If you’re buying a home, your down payment and mortgage payments may also have drained your savings. If you’re feeling broke, make sure to adjust your spending habits until you can get back on track.

3. Increased Cost of Living

The things you once were able to comfortably afford may be more expensive in your new city. Groceries, gas, and eating out may all be more expensive. If this is the case, make sure you adjust your budget accordingly and consider bringing in additional income if you can’t find ways to make your budget work with an increased cost of living.

4. Lifestyle Creep

Is your new city more expensive than your last? You may find that lifestyle creep becomes a financial struggle for you. The things you once were able to afford may not be within budget anymore. You also may feel a strong fear of missing out on experiences in your new city. Try and balance how you spend your money and not let your new city blow your budget.

5. New Job Hunt

If you move without a job, you may face the financial struggle of job hunting. Hopefully, you’ll be able to use your emergency fund or savings to get you by while you look for a new job.

6. Transportation Costs

You may need to get around in a different way when you move. Maybe you’re used to walking or using public transit, but that isn’t an option in your new location. You may need to invest in a car if that is the only way to get from place to place.

7. Higher Taxes

If your new area has higher taxes, make sure that you budget appropriately. You may have to pay more in income tax, sales tax, or property tax in your new city.

8. Higher Utility Bills

Changes in weather in your new city may leave you with higher utility bills than you are used to. Especially when you are unsure how much your utilities may cost, it may come as a shock. To lower your bills use energy-efficient appliances, unplug devices, and compare utility providers.

9. Healthcare Costs

When moving to a new city, make sure that your new doctors are in-network. Don’t get caught going to doctors that are out-of-network, which will cost you more out-of-pocket. Especially if you are switching healthcare plans, your premiums may also increase in a new city. Be sure to check what your insurance coverage entails.

Are you moving to a new city? What unexpected costs have surprised you?

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