The Real Truth About Side Hustles: Why Something's Gotta Give

Hey there, fellow hustler! I'm Philipp, and as someone who's been juggling multiple projects (including building PostFlow and hosting the #buildinpublic podcast), I've learned a thing or two about the reality of side hustles. Let's cut through the BS and talk about what really happens when you try to build something on the side.

The Myth of "Having It All"

You've probably seen those Instagram posts: "How I built a 6-figure business while working full-time, maintaining six-pack abs, and sleeping 8 hours a night!" Yeah, right. 🙄

Here's the uncomfortable truth: something's gotta give. It's simple math - there are only 24 hours in a day, and unless you've discovered time travel, you can't create more.

The Sacrifice Menu (Pick Your Poison)

When starting a side hustle, you're essentially choosing what to sacrifice:

• Family time (sorry, loved ones)

• Sleep (hello, coffee addiction)

• Leisure activities (Netflix who?)

• Work hours (80% employment might be your friend)

Real Talk: The German Work Situation

One interesting advantage for German entrepreneurs (which I learned while building Reruption) is the legal right to work part-time. Unless you're a teacher, you can actually request reduced hours. Many employers are surprisingly cool with this - they'd rather keep a rockstar employee at 80% than lose them completely.

The Context-Switching Conundrum

Here's something that kicks my ass daily while managing multiple projects: context-switching. It's like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle - some people thrive on it, others (like me) find it exhausting af.

Speaking of juggling projects, this is exactly why I built PostFlow - to help content creators manage their ideas and scheduling without losing their minds. (Trust me, I needed this tool myself!)

Success Stories and Strategies

The 80% Solution

One approach I've seen work well (and experienced firsthand during my consulting days) is reducing your main job to 80%. This gives you:

• One full morning off

• One full afternoon off

• Slightly reduced income but maintained security

The Gradual Transition

Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint. My journey from full-time employment to running multiple ventures (including PostFlow and the #buildinpublic podcast) didn't happen overnight.

Finding Your Balance

While building my various projects (and spending time between Mallorca and Stuttgart - yeah, I'm that digital nomad cliché), I've learned that balance is personal. Some people can handle 17 context switches a day like a boss, while others (like me) need focused time blocks.

The Employer Perspective

Here's an interesting tidbit: entrepreneurial employees often make the best employees. Why? Because they:

• Think critically about processes

• Bring innovation mindsets

• Actually give a damn about results

Real Talk About Time Management

Want to know how I manage my time between running Reruption, hosting the #buildinpublic podcast, and developing PostFlow? I've learned to be ruthless with my priorities. Sometimes that means saying no to mountain biking (my favorite hobby) or delaying that sailing trip.

The Bottom Line

Starting a side hustle while employed isn't impossible - but it requires honest acknowledgment of trade-offs. Don't fall for the "have it all" bullshit. Choose your sacrifices consciously.

And hey, if you're struggling with content creation while building your side hustle (who isn't?), check out PostFlow. It's literally built by someone who feels your pain (me!), and the first 30 scheduled content pieces are free. Just saying! 😉

Remember: The goal isn't to do everything - it's to do the right things that move you toward your goals. Now go forth and hustle smartly!

(P.S. If you're wondering how I manage to create consistent content while juggling all these projects - PostFlow is my secret weapon. Had to throw that in there! 😎)