5 reasons why side hustles can benefit your mental health

5 reasons why side hustles can benefit your mental health5 reasons why side hustles can benefit your mental healthNew data from Simple, an online banking company, shows that more American millennials have aside hustlethan ever before, while Google has shown a significant uptick in side-hustle-related searches over the last two years. Though side hustles likefreelancing, teaching, and driving forride-share serviceshave become popular ways to earn extra cash or indulge in yourentrepreneurial spirit, these independent jobs also provide hustlers with a bunch of unexpectedmental benefits. Scroll on for a handful of ways your hustle can help you stay happy andhealthy.1. Gain controlWhen you care deeply about your work, it can be frustrating when you arent able to call the shots or make an impact that leaves you feeling fulfilled. This might be especially true if you feel stunted in atoxic culture, are miserable as the result of abad boss, or are deckenfries in a situation where you simply dont have the freedom to do things the way you want to on the job. If youre familiar with any of these struggles firsthand, youve probably found that having a personalpassion projectthats totally your own can give you the decision-making powers you crave.2. Grow personally and professionallyProfessional learning opportunities are one of a jobs best perks, whether you have teammates who teach you new skills or enjoy access to books and classes through your company. Unfortunately, the information you need to know to do your job well might not always be of interest to you. Having a side hustle that challenges you in an area youre genuinely interested in is exciting and can give you a sense of purpose. Reading up on nights and weekends or enrolling indigital coursesyou can take at your leisure will allow you to expand your skill set while fueling yourpassion.3.Relieve stressDoing something that makes you feel energized, proud, and confident is a solid way to combat work worries. Thankfu lly, there are a number ofentrepreneurial endeavorsthat can provide this benefit. If you love car rides, signing up to drive for a company likeUberorLyftmight give you the opportunity to unwind by talking with passengers and listening to tunes. If you adore dogs and being outside, spending time with cute canines in nature as a dog walker could be the ticket. Or, if writing, designing, orcraftingis your jam, youre likely to find that dedicating time to yourcreativework brings you a much-needed mental break from day-job-related stress.4. CureboredomHave you been in your current role or at your company for a long time? Do you love what you do but crave more variety? A side hustle can help you explore skills or talents that you enjoy but dont get to use nearly enough. Keep things interesting by pursuing a side hustle thats a complete departure from your usual work routine. For example, if you sit in front of a computer all day, try working in a boutique or helping out at events around t own after hours youll exercise different parts of your brain and, as a bonus, youll come back to your nine-to-five feeling refreshed.5. Build new relationshipsYour day job might introduce you to plenty of smart people in your industry, but exploring an entrepreneurial pursuit thats different from your regular employment can help you makefriendsand contacts within a new community. Tap into these varied social circles by taking classes, attending local meetups or conferences, or volunteering at a festival to build meaningful relationships that leave you feeling connected, fulfilled, and happy.Thisarticlefirst appeared onBrit + Co.