She Strengthens

Breaking Free from the 9-to-5 Grind

As I settled into adulthood, I found myself caught up in the whirlwind of career advancement, socializing, and constant relocation. But once I finally secured a stable job, signed a long-term lease, and formed close bonds with my friends, I began to crave more. I yearned to explore new passions and get ahead financially, all while maintaining my secure foundation.

The Quest for a Side Hustle

The problem was, I didn’t have an obvious talent or passion that could generate income. I wasn’t willing to invest a lot of money into something that might not pay off. That ruled out popular options like photography and fitness instruction. Additionally, my full-time job made it impossible to commit to a fixed schedule during the week, and I didn’t want to sacrifice my precious nights and weekends.

The Gig Economy to the Rescue

I turned to the gig economy, hoping to find something flexible that would accommodate my unpredictable schedule. That’s when I stumbled upon dog walking – an unexpected gem that fit my criteria perfectly. Traditionally, dog walkers built their own businesses from scratch, but new tech startups like Rover have revolutionized the industry, making it more accessible for both dog owners and walkers.

How it Works

Rover is essentially the Uber of dog walking. Owners can schedule same-day walks through the app, providing all the necessary instructions and details. Walkers simply request the walks that fit their schedule and location. It’s a seamless process that benefits both parties.

Getting Started

To get started, I underwent a short phone interview and completed a 2-hour, $30 training class, which taught me how to handle different types of leashes and harnesses. After that, I was ready to hit the pavement.

The Benefits Abound

Over a month into dog walking, I’ve experienced numerous benefits. Not only do I get to spend time with adorable dogs, but I’ve also seen positive changes in my physical health, thanks to walking up to 7 miles a day. I’m sleeping better, and I’ve even gotten to explore hidden gems in my neighborhood. And, of course, there’s the financial incentive – I can earn up to $150 a week, depending on the number of walks I complete.

Flexibility is Key

The best part? Dog walking through an app offers unparalleled flexibility. If my work schedule gets crazy, I can simply adjust my walks accordingly. There are no fixed commitments, just a chance to earn extra money on my own terms.

No Talent Required

The beauty of dog walking lies in its accessibility. You don’t need a special skillset or talent – just the ability to hold a leash. If you’re looking to supplement your income, build an emergency fund, or simply treat yourself, dog walking might be the perfect solution.