Managing Your Mental Health/Anxiety In The Gig Economy

By Joshua Rivedal and Efrem Epstein



As we enter 2022, more and more of us are earning money through the Gig Economy and side-hustles. We get it…We both have had our share of side-hustles in our lives and we currently co-host a ZoomCast Series together called “Cubicle Lift” that focuses on Mental Health In The Workplace.  

If you’re feeling stressed and anxious, that’s both OK and normal. That said, here are a few tips to help you negotiate a healthier mindset for your own office…even if that office is a phone/device:

Build A Community

You’re not alone in this.  Yes, you may be working by yourself but many others are going through the same struggles. If your work is something you do from a home office, perhaps try to meet up with someone in a similar situation and “be productive” together.  

And just as co-workers meet up for lunches/drinks, try to do the same with fellow self-hustlers. Camaraderie is important and just because you’re not in a physical office doesn’t mean you don’t still need some form of mutual support.

Give Yourself Breaks

Everyone both needs and deserves time off. If you’re a gig worker, not only does this include you but it probably means especially you! Sometimes less is more and by allowing yourself time to decompress you may increase your efficiency (and financial intake) during your official work times.

Don’t Let Anyone Shame You

You may occasionally encounter people who don’t get the gig economy and feel it’s beneath them (likely because they can’t envision actually pulling it off themselves). Sadly job shaming is a thing, just ask Geoffrey Owens. Not only are most side-hustles a good, honest way to make a living but they require more efficient organizational skills and stringent discipline than most other careers. If someone can’t realize that, then that’s their issue, not yours!

Be Good To Yourself

All too often, we’re our own worst critics. If a mistake happens, remind yourself you’re human. Nobody’s perfect and everybody (even those who seem successful) makes mistakes..and most of them will be bigger than any error you’ll make today. If you’re a side-hustler you’re managing a process that many could not. Own it and pat yourself on the back. Give yourself the respect you deserve…You’ve earned it!

Please take care of yourself as you’re working so hard to take care of those around you with your work, gigs, and side-hustles. Your most important side-hustle is your own self-care.

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