5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Disclosure: This post has been compensated by Collective Bias, INC. and The Coca-Cola Company, all opinions are mine alone. #BecauseICan #IGottaHaveIt #CollectiveBias

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

One question that I get asked a lot from all of you is “How do I turn something I’m passionate about into a career”? Let me just tell you that it involves a lot of soul searching and even more caffeine! But believe me, I had the same question and still do. I am constantly analyzing what I’m good at and if there is the potential for a pay off. We are constantly told to chase our dreams but that’s hard to do without an income source. Whether you are looking at making a complete career change or want to start a side hustle, today I am teaming up with Diet Coke® to share five hobbies that have made me money or brought about valuable career opportunities.

My hope with sharing this is not to have you set out in search of a hobby that will make you money. A hobby should be something that you are genuinely interested in whether or not you ever make a dollar from it. If making a quick buck is your only intent when starting out, then there is a good possibility that when things get tough (and they will get tough), that you will quickly lose interest and move onto something else. So think about what you like to do for fun, what you are good at, or what brings you or others around you happiness and go from there. Then use those passions and interests as fuel for learning how to turn your hobby into a revenue source.

SHOPPING

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Top | Shorts | Sandals | SunglassesBag

If you don’t consider shopping a hobby, think again! There is definitely money to be made here, especially if you have a knack for finding a good deal. Everyone wants the next best thing but doesn’t want to fork over an arm and a leg for it. The more you shop around, get a feel for what is available and at what different price points, the more educated you are on scoring a great deal. From that point, there are multiple outlets to making money.

If you have a knack for hitting up garage sales, estate sales or bargain spots then you might be able to make money reselling these items for more than what you bought them for. Outlets like Ebay, Craigslist, or local consignment stores are usually best for this. You could also become a personal shopper for somebody else who does not have the time or care to do so. These types of jobs are normally paid by the hour but can also be commission based. Lastly, if you want to earn money by sharing some of those great deals you find on the internet, you can sign up for an affiliate network. This means that every time someone uses your product link, you will earn a small commission. Bloggers use this as part of their income source!

WRITING

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Top | Shorts | Felt Letter Board

I currently make my entire salary from blogging (a form of writing) if that tells you anything! This once upon hobby has now turned into a daily paycheck that pays my bills and so much more! If you have a knack for writing, connecting with like minded people, and documenting bits of your life then you might try dabbling in blogging. Whether you have a passion for fashion, fitness, cooking, traveling, parenting advice, or whatever it might be, try sharing your ideas on the internet and see what traction you get. Once you start to build an audience, money can be made through advertisements , sponsored posts, and commission based affiliate networks.

If you do not have an interest in the maintenance to start your own blog but feel like you have valuable information, stories, or advice that you could share, there are many opportunities for freelance writers. This is where you would sell your article to a site for either a flat rate or an agreed upon price per word count.

TRAVELING5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Swimsuit Top | Swimsuit Bottoms | Shorts | Hat | Bag

If you have a passion for traveling then you know that it is an expensive hobby. I’m not sitting here telling you that it is easy to travel for free but I am saying that thanks to the internet and growing economy, it is easier than ever to merge your love for travel with making money. Because of this, there are in fact ways to make travel cheaper and even profitable if you are willing to think outside of the box!

A few ways to earn money and travel are to become a travel writer or blogger, house or pet sit, work on a cruise ship, teach english, become a tour guide, or work remotely for any type of virtual job. An online business or job can be run from anywhere you can get a Wi-Fi connection.

SPORTS

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Top | Skort | Shoes | Sunglasses

Maybe you grew up playing sports or maybe you’ve picked them up later in life, either way there is value in the love of the game. Not only are you working on interpersonal skills and expanding your network, but you are getting fit in the process! For those that are stuck in the hobby zone, you never know when your next job lead can come up in a conversation over a round of golf or maybe the drinks that follow afterword. So even if you never make a dollar from a tennis match, intramural softball game, or round of golf, connections are the most valuable form of job leads!

Now if you are the next Tom Brady or truly have a gift for sports, you might consider coaching or personal training. These types of jobs are normally paid by the hour, are flexible, and are usually a long term type of gig as most people need multiple sessions.

PHOTOGRAPHY

5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off
5 Hobbies That Can Pay Off

Jumpsuit | Sandals | Sunglasses | Hat | Bag | Sunglasses

Photos by: BanAvenue

Almost everyone these days has a camera, whether it’s on your phone or a DSLR. Technology has made it so easy for us to take great photos! While the market is saturated, pictures are truly something that everyone wants and needs which is a good thing for you if you have an eye for art and taking a great photo!

If you think you have a handle on capturing beautiful moments and have learned your way around a camera, try starting a social media page and growing a business. You might offer to take some pictures for family or friends to build up your portfolio and if you do a good job, before you know it people will want to pay you for your work!

New Diet Coke Flavors

New Diet Coke Flavors

New Diet Coke Flavors

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Shoes | Bag

Now how do I do it all? Like I said, a lot of caffeine because sleep is hard to come by when you are turning your passions into careers! I was so excited to team up with Diet Coke to try out their new flavors that come in these sleek 12 ounce cans. They have the same, great flavor as the one and only Diet Coke has always had just with a facelift! New flavors include Feisty Cherry, Ginger Lime, Zesty Blood Orange and Twisted Mango. My personal favorite is the Feisty Cherry and they weren’t kidding when they said feisty. This one packs a punch that you won’t know what I’m really talking about until you try.

You can find these on-the-go singles or 8-packs at most grocery stores and convenience stores! I picked mine up at my local HEB. And because I wouldn’t be a good friend if I didn’t give you some sort of great deal, you can earn $1.25 when you purchase an 8-pack of Diet Cokes along with any brand of avocados. Both products must be purchased on the same receipt to receive credit for this rebate.

 *Thank you Diet Coke® for sponsoring this post. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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4 Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

Sandals | Beach Tee | Jeans | Luggage Set | Passport Holder

My goal when traveling is always comfort with a little bit of chic thrown into the outfit. Because airplanes are always cold, you can almost always find me in a pair of jeans or leggings with a small jacket or cardigan in my carry on. This “Hola Beaches” tee is the perfect festive shirt for any beach vacay. Another favorite of mine is this “O Hey Vacay” tee.

Peplum Top | Jean Shorts | Sandals | Straw Hat | Straw Bag | Sunglasses

A day at the beach calls for denim cut offs and the most skin bearing top you own. This peplum cami is just $10 and comes in 6 colors! Two other beach necessities are a straw hat and bag. Invest in durable ones that will last you years to come. I’ve had this hat and bag for months and have lasted me through several beach trips so far!

Bikini Top | Bikini Bottoms | Cover Up | Towel | Beach Bag | Sunglasses

If you are heading somewhere sunny, don’t forget to bring along your favorite swimsuit, cover up, beach bag and sunglasses. I never want to bring my designer shades on vacation because let’s be honest, after a few cocktails, they are usually the first to go. These oversized aviator sunglasses are my favorite everyday glasses and are just $14!

Dress | Wedge Sandals | Clutch | Earrings | Bracelet

I’m convinced almost any dress can be turned into a beach outfit with the right pair of wedges and fun accessories. These wedges are my most recent and best purchase that I expect to wear on every vacation for awhile. They come in black, brown and blush– all are good colors that can go with any outfit and instantly dress up any outfit.


If you are still in need of some vacation outfit inspiration I have an entire page to beach inspired looks. Everything from swimsuits, to beach bags, to summer dresses, find all of the inspiration here!

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Work Wear Wednesday: Stripe City

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Sweater: LOFT | Pants: LOFT | Shoes: DSW | Bag: Amazon | Sunglasses: Rayban

Photography by: BanAvenue

Keeping it short and sweet today on account that I am heading to Cabo in T minus 2 days and still have nothing to wear.. oops. Two of my favorite retailers for workwear are having BIG sales! LOFT is having 40% off with code NEWNOW and Ann Taylor is having 40% off + an additional 10% off with code 10FORYOU.

Both my sweater and top in today’s post are included in the LOFT sale and are great transitional pieces. If you don’t already own a pair of navy trousers, these cropped pants have the most darling ribbon detail down the sides and a rounded hem. In a world full of plain trousers, why not add a little something extra when you can?! If you have never owned LOFT pants, I alway suggest sizing down. I wear a 00P in this brand.

My striped sweater is a good transition piece as it is light weight enough to carry you into Spring so you don’t have to sweat on your walk from your car into the office. I sized up to a small for a looser fit but I would say it runs true to size. Mentionable features about this sweater include the two tone stripes and split side. In a world full of stripes, this sweater takes the cake for being different. It also comes in blue!

OTHER SALE FAVORITES


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February Top Ten

**CLICK AN IMAGE TO SHOP THE ITEM DIRECTLY**

I can’t even believe February is already over and I’m here sharing the top 10 purchased items from all of you during the month. I started this series last month and y’all seemed to really like it so we are going to make this a regular thing! Remember these are the 10 most purchased items that the It’s All Chic To Me community purchased just during the month of February. I am able to track all of these purchases through the back end of the links that you use every time you click and/or purchase an item through my Instagram or blog!

It looks like y’all are most into shoes and all things spring right now! Click through the below images (using the arrows) to see what earned it’s top ten spot this month! I have also provided sizing information on the items that I own.

I want to say a big thank you to all of you that click and shop through my links on Instagram and here on this blog. Each purchase you make through my links is helping my business grow and I could not be more appreciative of that!

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Understanding What Motivates You

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Work Wear Wednesday

Blazer: Topshop | Top: Similar | Skirt: LOFT | Shoes: Nordstrom | Purse: Amazon

Photography by: Ban Avenue

I hadn’t planned on sharing this today but as are most of my blog posts, this one was spurred by an Instagram discussion. That Instagram discussion was spurred by my random thoughts while taking a walk around the neighborhood (something I’m trying to be better about doing).

Although I am a finance major and relatively business minded, I have never been motivated by money. Maybe that’s because I grew up surrounded by it and have had a fairly easy time in the financial department, but nonetheless money has just never been the driving source to motivate me. I think back to when my parents would grant us an allowance each month if we completed our chores. I almost never got an allowance- shocker!! But even a much younger, simpler minded Shelbi was more driven by the promise of TCBY or a gold star than money- imagine that!

So this made me think, if not money, then what drives me? How do I measure success? I had a good idea of what my drivers might be but I decided to hit up my good friend, Google, to see what other factors normally motivate people. And here is what she (yes, I’ve declared Google to be a wise woman) said.

1. Money and Rewards


Most people wake up each morning and head into work solely because of the reason they have bills to pay and work is an end to a means to pay those bills. Most people are simply working for the money and no other reason. A lot of people think that all they want is money, but what they do not realize is money is not usually the end product they are actually wanting. People want money to pay bills so that they can feel secure, to buy a nice car so that they can feel cool, to pay off their debts so that they can feel accomplished.

2. Desire to be the Best


Some people cannot stand being second best. Whether it is pride or hating to lose, these people push themselves the hardest when they know they are competing for that number one spot. Even if that “number one spot” is something they have created in their mind and isn’t actually something physically attainable. These people usually have no problem sacrificing weekends, skipping out on family dinners, or waking up at 5 to get ahead of the game.

3. Helping Others


And then some are motivated by helping others because they want to bring about change, motivation or inspiration into others’ lives. They care about making the world a better place.They feel happiest when they feel like they are making a difference a bringing about a greater good in someone’s life beside their own.

4. Power and Fame


This is a common motivator right behind money and normally go hand in hand because most people associate power and fame with how much money you have. People that are driven by power and fame usually are craving attention and acceptance of some kind. In this day and age of celebrities, Youtube sensations, and social influencers, there is more interest than ever to put ourselves out there to attract a large following and revel in the attention from complete strangers. Normally those whose number one motivator in life is fame, are normally met with disappointment because they always seem to want more.

5. Recognition


Know somebody that always has to be right? Or makes sure that everyone else knows that they accomplished their goal? Some people feel most accomplished or proud of themselves when they are recognized publicly. This can be as small as a simple thank you, just something to show that somebody recognizes and appreciates that you are doing a good job. It has been proven that recognition in any shape or form tends to increase a person’s sense of worth which in turn produces an increased sense of pride and satisfaction in their work. This is why a lot of companies do Employee of the Month.

6. The Passion


Passion is the strongest motivator out there. It is what can make us sacrifice sleep or leisure time in order to do something we love. The power of passion spreads through all parts of life, whether it be a sport, hobby, family, friends, etc. Passion can make us do some crazy things that money can’t. Sadly, most people do not find passion in their jobs. They become zombies just going through the motion of their job. But those that are passionate about their jobs, feel as though they have never had to work a day in their life!


So what does all of this mean? Once you understand what drives and motivates you, you can better your work ethic and turn your work into a passionate career. By identifying what it is that motivates us, we can enhance the factor used to obtain success. Because without motivation, you will never have the drive to fulfill your hopes and dreams.

Most of us are a mixture of several of these. My number one motivator is most definitely helping others. While I can get caught up in the power and fame craze of social media, at the end of the day I find myself most concerned with thoughts like, “Did I make a difference in anyone’s life today?”, “Am I making a positive impact?”, “Am I using my God given gifts to help make a difference?”. And even if I dropped followers or didn’t get very many likes on my Instagram photo that day, as long as I received one message or comment throughout the day from one of you that said you can relate to what I am sharing or that something I shared inspired or made you feel good about yourself, well then I can go to sleep with a happy heart and wake up the next morning ready to do it all again!

What motivates you? I’d love to hear in the comments below!

 

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