What to Look for in a Side Venture

In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of a side venture has become increasingly appealing to many professionals, especially those asking, “Is this all there is?”

If you’re an executive, a business owner, or even part of a family-run business, the thought of a side venture might have crossed your mind.

But what exactly should you be looking for when considering this path? How do you ensure it’s not just another job but something that truly resonates with you?

The Intersection of Skills, Experience, and Interests

When choosing a side venture, the first thing you should consider is the intersection of your skills, experience, and interests. Finding a venture that lies at this intersection is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction. When these three elements align, you’re not only more likely to enjoy the journey, but you’re also more likely to succeed. This alignment ensures that your side venture doesn’t feel like an additional burden or a second job that drags you down.

Side Hustles vs. Side Ventures

There’s a distinct difference between a side hustle and a side venture. Side hustles are often short-term solutions, trading time for money to address immediate financial needs. While they can be beneficial in the short term, they often lack the depth and fulfillment that a side venture can provide.

A side venture, on the other hand, is about creating something with longevity.

It’s a for-profit endeavor that has the potential to lead you into new, exciting directions—possibly even replacing your current day job.

Understanding the "Why"

Before diving into a side venture, it’s essential to understand why you’re feeling dissatisfied with your current role.

Are you unhappy with the work itself, the people, the company’s philosophy, or perhaps it’s something deeper? Maybe you’ve been forced into your current position by circumstances, or perhaps it’s just not what you want anymore. Gaining clarity on the reasons behind your dissatisfaction will help you identify a side venture that truly resonates with you and meets your needs.

The Myth of Passion

There’s a popular saying that if you find your passion, you’ll never work a day in your life. While there’s truth to this, it’s not always practical. Often, the things we’re passionate about aren’t necessarily things that people will pay us for. Instead, look for something that sparks your interest, meets a need, or lights you up in some way. Turning that into a side venture can lead to a second chapter in your life that’s more meaningful and possibly even more successful.

My Journey from Corporate to Coaching

I spent over 30 years in the corporate world, working as a C-suite executive across various industries in Southeast Asia and Australia. While I loved using my skills, I often found myself feeling dissatisfied after a couple of years. It wasn’t until a friend approached me to help fix his business that I discovered my true calling—coaching. What started as a side venture has now become my life’s work. It’s intellectually stimulating, allows me to teach, and most importantly, I feel I’m making a positive impact by helping business owners and executives achieve their goals.

Is It Time for Your Side Venture?

If you’re feeling dissatisfied with your current role, whether as a business owner, executive, or any other capacity, it might be time to consider a side venture. Take a moment to reflect on why you’re feeling this way and what kind of venture would align with your skills, experience, and interests.

If financial pressures are driving your decision, a side hustle might be the answer. But if you’re looking for something more fulfilling and long-term, a side venture could be the key to unlocking the next chapter of your life.

If you’d like to explore this further, I’m happy to have a chat—no strings attached. Just drop a comment below, and we’ll get in touch.

This article aims to guide those considering a side venture, helping them align their skills, experience, and interests to create something meaningful and profitable.