There’s a common myth that entrepreneurship is only for the 20 or 30-something crowd. Once you’re over forty, it’s easy to think, “I’m too old”, or “it’s too late for me”.
But according to Magriet Groenewald, well-known social media marketing specialist, nothing could be further from the truth. She reveals how you can start an online side-hustle at any age.
“The only deadline for your dreams is the one you set for yourself,” she says. “It’s never too late to kick off your own small business even just as a side-hustle. Age or where you come from doesn’t matter. In fact, I believe that when you are older, you are wiser and know yourself better – and that is a big advantage in running your own business.”
So, if you have enough drive, motivation, and passion, you can start a successful new venture at 40, 50, 60… or even 70, and the best time to do it is now!
There is a whole community of entrepreneurs currently proving that age is just a number when it comes to business, and some of Magriet’s students are living proof of this.
For example, Melinda Botha started Deafways at the age of 46. It’s a platform that helps to bridge communication gaps in deaf communities.
Adri van Rooyen (44) started Magnificent Kids, where she develops programs and teaches language skills to children. Meanwhile, at the age of 75, Joan Hope began offering online classes with her business Successful Chemistry Tuition for IGCSE to A Level.
Kenny started the Academy of Dental Marketing at the age of 53, after identifying the need for more comprehensive dental practice management training.
Because we live in a digital world, the way we communicate with other people has changed. This new way of communication creates many opportunities to easily earn extra income. The internet is full of opportunities to turn your hobby into a profitable business. You just need to know how to use it correctly.
Magriet shares a few ways you can earn extra income online:
E-commerce platforms: Setting up an online shop is super easy now. With sites like Shopify, Etsy, and Amazon, you can sell anything from handmade stuff to digital products all over the world.
Freelancing websites: Got a special skill? Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer let you make money from skills like graphic design, writing, coding, or digital marketing. You can work with clients everywhere.
Social media marketing: Social media isn’t just for chatting with friends anymore. It’s a powerful way to market your products and services. You can use Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to grow your brand, connect with people, and sell stuff.
Online courses:
There’s a big demand for sharing knowledge. You can create your own online courses and sell your expertise. This industry is booming as people are starting to realise the benefit of learning online and obtaining new skills.
Content creation: Love blogging, podcasting, or making videos? Turn it into a money-making side hustle. Platforms like YouTube, Patreon, and Medium let you earn through ads, sponsorships, and subscriptions.
“Remember, to live out and make a reality of your entrepreneurial dream is entirely possible, whether you are in the process of starting a business or simply looking to earn some extra income,” says Groenewald.
According to her, the options are endless. What is important is to become aware of these opportunities around you, to identify them, and then to seize the opportunities that come your way.