Getting out of the military and diving into business for ourselves can be tough. Especially with family. So do you have a sidehustle?

CPT Christopher Coker — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 06:00:11 -0500

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2017 6:23 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 06:23:02 -0500

When I was in, infantrymen didn't have time for sidehustles. Everyone I knew that did ended up getting into trouble for not being able to fulfill their duties. Maybe times have changed.

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Nov 20 at 2017 7:04 AM

SPC Erich Guenther — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 07:04:16 -0500

It's tough no matter when you do it, IMO. Your risking everything regardless of if your married or single. Though I would look at being married as an advantage because the wife can earn a independent income and support the business that way or she can work hours in the business and give you more time off to either manage or just rest. The best way to start a business is with a second source of income flowing in that is independent of the business start-up and as debt free as you can. Though the wife can also interfere and insist the business is an extension of the marriage or on being a co-Manager. Depends on the relationship I guess.

Response by Maj John Bell made Nov 20 at 2017 9:53 AM

Maj John Bell — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 09:53:52 -0500

For me, now, everything is a side hustle. I have my own CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farm and wood working business. From the farm I literally turn almost every "waste product" into a value added product for a revenue stream or raw material for a revenue stream., plus the same goes for my wood working and restoration business.

When I was on active duty, I did wood carving, furniture restoration, leather work, appliance and small engine repair, minor car repair and preventative maintenance, and always "flipped" the house we lived in, before we knew what house flipping was.