Welp, there's another popular career trend in the workplace streets. According to Forbes, it's “polyworking” or the act of taking on multiple jobs at the same time, creating multiple streams of income. Rather than relying on a single source of income, people are happily clocking in to two different employers. “Almost half (46%) of workers are polyworking with a side hustle or additional job, and a further 36% plan on starting one in the future,” the publication reports.
For Black women, this is nothing really new. I mean, many of us could relate when Tichina Arnold, in her role as Chris Rock’s mom on Everybody Hates Chris, would be quick to remind everyone that she doesn’t “need this mess” because her man has “two jobs.” And if you come from a Caribbean or African background (or know people who do), many of the women in the family have two jobs and a side hustle. (Money haffi mek, okay! If you know you know!)
The Benefits Of Polyworking For Black Women
For research and scientific legitimacy sake, “polyworking” is the word that applies to this, and it’s something that, in this economy, might be super-essential for Black millennial women to actually live the soft lives they want (or simply to live comfortably, far away from the check-to-check, can’t-afford-a-new-pair-of-shoes nightmare.)
If you’ve been dealing with underemployment, are getting a bit bored with your 9-to-5, or want to be able to utilize the skills and talents you have that are outside of your main role at work, you might want to consider a shift in mindset and get on the polyworking train.
As ambitious, smart Black women, here’s why:
It’s empowering: With many of us feeling underappreciated and dealing with workplaces that are neither emotionally nor physically safe, polyworking is a good remedy. You can own your career story and try something totally different. When all your eggs aren’t in one basket, you too can say, "I don’t have time for this mess. I have another source of income (or lucrative skill) to sustain me."
It’s affirming: When you’re able to learn and monetize a new skill, it shows you how much more you’re capable of outside of one job. For example, while I love being a writer and editor, and I’m mostly known for that, I also love to teach and mentor.
After pursuing a master’s program with a concentration in coaching and completing my studies, I can build credibility and tap into my multiple passions without remaining in a box.
Jordi Salas/Getty
It’s financially savvy: It’s one thing to have one job earning $40,000 after taxes. It’s another to have a side hustle or second part-time job, in addition, bringing your income to $60,000. And if you’re consulting or able to charge by the hour, that number goes up tremendously.
Oftentimes, when we really look at the value of our time and use it wisely, we can literally enjoy financial freedom, and it doesn’t have to look like the stereotypical work-my-fingers-to-the-bone scenario.
Many women work two jobs and still have time to enjoy life simply by maximizing their time, negotiating what they’re worth, and tapping into their true skill sets to do things they love.
And if you think about it, sometimes having two part-time jobs is better than having one stressful full-time job simply because, again, once you clock out of the first one, you can pivot to challenge yourself in new ways for another role. It can ensure you don’t hit that burnout rut and can be that boost of confidence you’ve been looking for since the sour, isolating days of COVID.
It’s smart to prepare for a future career change. When you try out another role or industry as a second option (or the side career boo to your main career bae), you can easily figure out what you definitely don’t want to pursue while still having a main paycheck to sustain you. If you’re looking to totally change careers, this is a great way to do so, so that you can build up your resume and you’ll actually be competitive in the new market.
How To Embrace Polyworking
In order to find success with polyworking, experts recommend the following:
1. Take time to evaluate your skills, interests, and passions and “identify areas where you can offer value across multiple roles or projects.” You want to think about gaps and what might add value to your life.
2. Get real about your actual options. Start slow and with one project or a new job to add to your job portfolio.
3. Expand your current network. Oftentimes, finding and landing quality jobs (or side projects) is done via word-of-mouth or through certain networks, and if you’re going in a totally new direction with your second job or project, you’ll need to network across and above in that new industry.
The people who are currently part of your network are great, but they may only see you in the box (or context) of what you currently do, and they might not be well-versed in the new you or the new industry you’re pursuing. Get out there, go to conferences, happy hours, or meet-ups, and really find out what it takes to be a success in that particular field.
4. Update your online presence. Since you’re interested in new opportunities, incorporate language and messaging that reflect soft or transferable skills you already have that might be ideal for a new industry or project. Start updating your LinkedIn with blog posts or share relevant information or experience you have in the new lane. Let people know that, while you enjoy your day job, you want to tap further into your full potential in other areas where you are gifted or skilled.
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
