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Ever wondered what’s it like to turn your pastime into a money-spinner?  As cliché as it may sound, I’ve always loved words since I was a little girl. I blame my mum for giving me lots of ‘Peter and Jane’ books. I also remember getting excited over ‘The Surprise Party’ and ‘…town mouse and country mouse’. In 2007, I started my own blog, which was nothing more than an average diary. My cousin, who was a loyal reader of my now-defunct blog, told me: “Jo Leen, you always make me laugh hysterically.” (Yup, she was entertained by my blog posts). Soon, all the ‘you should write, Jo Leen’ from my coursemates and friends became something I couldn’t ignore. I always knew that I wanted something to do with web content. After nearly two years at a business intelligence firm, I made the move to pursue something closer to my heart. So, I do hope you come back for more, unless of course whatever I write or type here doesn’t interest you. Anyway, unless you’re really serious, the intention of this post is merely to inform you that there are some pastimes that can actually earn you some dollars.

If you have parents who tell you ‘Girl, why are you always online?’

Tell them you want to let as many people follow you on as many social media channels as possible. If they still don’t understand, make them follow you. So they know what you’re doing ???? If you’re really into social media, you should make an attempt at being a social media marketer. Who knows? You could be the voice of the customer and provide him or her with digital support when necessary.

If you’re a thought-spiller

Spill your thoughts on paper often? I used to participate in slogan and essay-writing competitions. As I grew older, I learnt that non-profit organizations are good platforms to flaunt your writing skills. Well, if you’d like, you could do so by writing and blogging on online platforms. However, first, it’s best to find your niche. What about your target audience? Thinking of potential advertisers? Great. Remember those in your network, too as they can be of help. Will there be multiple income streams? These are the things to consider.

If you’ve been labelled the eccentric graphic designer

Go ahead and pursue a career in graphic design. I know what you’re thinking… with so many graphic design software packages available, wouldn’t it be easy for anyone to be a graphic designer? Great thinking. However, do note that very few people take their skills seriously. If anything, one has to stand out from the rest due to the high competition.

If it feels like you lug around with your camera/photo-taking devices often

Photography is also another pastime that can be a source of income. With the latest technology, taking photographs do not require much effort. Have you thought of entering photography contests? Even then, it takes both perseverance and skill to be an exceptional photographer. With a variety of social media platforms, one can easily choose to monetize their photographs. Rates for photography services should highly be based on one’s experience. Take note that a DSLR camera can come up to a few thousand.

If you can’t seem to get your hands off materials and sewing kits

Always find yourself making crafts during your free time? Why not consider marketing and selling them at art bazaars or festivals? If you’re tech-savvy, you could look into doing so at various online marketplaces.

It goes without saying that it doesn’t matter what your pastime is. What matters more is whether it is marketable. With an enterprising mindset, anything is possible.