Work Smart, Not Hard: Jobs with the Most Downtime in 2023
Do you long for more quality time to do what you love? Discover flexible, income-boosting opportunities that allow you to call the shots, from earning extra cash to pursuing your passions on your terms.
Join us as we uncover jobs with the most downtime to help you find the right balance between work, relaxation, and personal growth. Let's work together to find the perfect balance for you.
Take a Look at the Top 7 Laid-Back Jobs
Leave behind the chaos of a demanding schedule and welcome a refreshingly laid-back way to increase your income. We've compiled a comprehensive list of side hustles that offer you more free time while earning extra income.
Here are the best jobs with the most downtime:
#1 Content creators
Sprout Social describes content creators as people who "produce entertaining, educational, or captivating content for digital distribution." Using their creativity, content creators create and share videos, pictures, and stories on different social media platforms to entertain, teach, or inspire others.
Their most common content includes:
YouTube videos
YouTubers make videos about almost everything you can think of. They might show you how to cook yummy dishes, play online games, or even talk about their adventures.
Instagram stories & photos
Content creators share cool pictures and stories about their lives on Instagram. There will be pictures of their pets, family, delicious food, and the beautiful places they visit.
TikTok videos
TikTok is all about short, fun videos. On TikTok, content creators share dancing trends, songs, jokes, cooking recipes, travel adventures, and even handmade crafts.
Podcasts
Besides producing content on social media, many content creators have ventured into podcasting, where they discuss fascinating topics, share engaging stories, and host interviews with other creators.
#2 Digital designers
Graphic designers craft visual content like logos, branding materials, social media posts, and websites.
You can offer your services online if you have graphic design skills and can use programs like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Canva.
One excellent way to do it is by joining job marketplaces that offer freelance gigs, including Fiverr, Upwork, Indeed, or Freelancer.
You can also post your services on LinkedIn or create an Instagram profile to share your work and reach potential customers.
Usually, as a graphic designer, you can enjoy moments of relaxation between projects. You can prepare for upcoming tasks or explore new tools to enhance your creative skills.
#3 Online survey takers
Paid surveys reward you for completing them. Why? When you join survey sites, you get paid to help market research companies develop new products and services before they launch.
We love Forthright. On this reliable and easy-to-use online survey platform, you can quickly sign up, complete your profile, take surveys, and earn outstanding rewards, including cash and gift cards from your favorite online retailers!
Earning money from the comfort of your couch is as easy as joining Forthright.
Survey Junkie is another excellent site to earn rewards by completing surveys. In addition, it offers the chance to participate in the SJ Pulse Program, which analyzes browsing behavior for market research purposes and rewards you in return.
Savvy Connect and the National Internet Observatory also allow you to earn money by tracking your online searches, shopping, and entertainment habits.
#4 Blogger
As a side hustle, blogging offers both downtime and income potential.
There is no need to worry if you don't know how to start a blog. The most important thing is to choose a topic you're passionate about, find a platform for posting, such as WordPress or Blogger, and commit to writing regularly.
Create a destination for people interested in your expertise, interests, or hobbies. Research is your blogging superpower. When you conduct research, you can create content that attracts and engages your audience.
#5 Security guards
As a security guard, your primary role is to ensure the safety and security of the premises you're responsible for. This involves patrolling the area, monitoring security cameras, and responding to incidents during your shift.
One of the unique aspects of being a security guard, particularly during overnight shifts, is the potential for extended downtime. While you must remain alert and responsive to security concerns, there are often times when you need more to do.
To make the most of your overnight security guard shift, consider activities like reading, learning, or pursuing a hobby that you can engage in while remaining attentive to your primary responsibilities. For example, you can use this time for other money-making opportunities, like completing paid surveys.
#6 Librarians
Librarians are crucial in organizing and maintaining library resources. They perform administrative tasks such as cataloging books, helping visitors find information, and managing library programs.
What makes library work an attractive option for a side hustle is the intermittent downtime librarians often experience. Between your duties, moments of quiet can be put to good use.
Consider activities like writing to maximize your downtime as a librarian. With all your skills and knowledge about books, you can write reviews online or self-publish your own stories on Amazon!
#7 Customer service representative
As a customer service representative, you're often the first point of contact for customers seeking assistance. You handle phone calls, address technical issues, and provide valuable guidance to ensure customer satisfaction.
The customer service field often features intermittent downtime, depending on your schedule. However, you can still dedicate your spare time to other jobs. Your communication skills and problem-solving abilities are assets that can translate into entrepreneurial success. Consider freelance writing, content creation, or e-commerce!
Benefits of Laid Back Jobs
Whether you're looking to supplement your income or cherish more free time, these jobs with the most downtime offer significant benefits. Below, we've listed 5 key advantages and valuable tips for making the most of each.
Benefit: Reduced stress
In jobs with downtime, you have the opportunity to reduce stress significantly.
Tip: Create a schedule that aligns with your peak productivity hours.
Benefit: Exploring interests
Jobs with downtime allow you to explore your interests and passions beyond the workplace. This can be incredibly fulfilling and satisfying.
Tip: Use your free time to dive into activities you're passionate about. Pursuing your interests can bring joy and balance to your life.
Benefit: Business testing
With downtime, you have the perfect opportunity to test out business ideas without quitting your day job.
Tip: Do thorough research before deciding on a new venture.
Benefit: Personal growth
Invest this time in developing new skills, acquiring knowledge, and becoming a better version of yourself.
Tip: Set aside time to learn and grow; you can take online courses, read books, or attend workshops.
Benefit: Achieving financial independence
Jobs with downtime enable you to work on multiple income streams, helping you achieve financial independence.
Tip: Diversify your income sources.
Ready to Embrace Jobs with Downtime for a Balanced Life
Take control of your schedule and make the most of your time. We've just covered a few examples of jobs with lots of downtime, but this is just the beginning of your journey.
Discover more exciting side hustles by reading our posts!