BEYOND THE 9 TO 5

Why side hustles are becoming a way of life for more full-time workers

- Sharon Salim

When Ms Joey Chan saw many pet owners struggling to find someone to care for their pets when they travel or work, she began offering house visits as a service.

The 26-year-old goes to pet owners' homes to feed their fur kids, clean up after them and administer medicine if needed. She also offers dog-walking services, stepping in when owners are too busy to do so themselves.

"Many of my clients have become regulars, and some even trust me enough to leave their home keys with me permanently so I can step in whenever needed," she told The Straits Times.

During peak periods like holiday seasons, she sometimes has to manage five or six home visits a day while juggling her full-time job as a business development manager at The Mind Cafe.

To do this, she has to ensure that the visits are scheduled strictly outside of work hours or on weekends. "It can be exhausting, but I make it work because I genuinely love what I do," she said.

"This is more than just a side hustle; it's a personal mission," the animal lover said.

Ms Chan is among a growing number of full-time employees, especially millennials and Gen Zers, who are pursuing side gigs not just to supplement their income, but also to seek personal fulfillment.

CHANGING PERCEPTION While having a side gig, or moonlighting, was once frowned upon, the practice is increasingly being reframed with more positive labels such as hustling, polyworking or having a "slash career" or "portfolio career".

The trend has become more prevalent in the post-pandemic world. While some employees do it discreetly, others are embracing their side ventures openly—sometimes even with the blessing of their employers.

Ms Chan's employer, for instance, is supportive of her pet-sitting gig.

"There's a mutual understanding that as long as it doesn't affect my work performance and I continue to fulfil my responsibilities, it's completely fine," she said.