How to Use Your 9–5 Job to Build a $1,000 per Month One-Person Business in 2024 in Six Easy Steps

4 min readJun 3, 2024

Imagine the transformative power of an extra $1,000 per month. It could mean paying off debts faster, saving for a dream vacation, kickstarting an investment portfolio, or even reducing financial stress. Transitioning from a regular 9–5 job to running your own one-person business might seem daunting, but by following these six strategic steps, you can achieve this goal without quitting your day job.

Step 1: Recognize the Power of Making Your First Dollar Online

Making your first dollar online is a pivotal moment. It shatters limiting beliefs and opens up a world of possibilities. Many people, myself included, start with preconceived notions like:

Making money online is a scam.
You need to be an expert to earn online.
Valuable skills are scarce.

Contrary to these beliefs, anyone can leverage the internet’s vast reach to make money. The real challenge often lies in shifting your mindset. Believe that it’s possible, and you will discover countless opportunities to earn.

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Step 2: Learn a Skill, Sell a Skill

Your current 9–5 job is more valuable than you think. It provides you with:

A skillset honed through experience.
Proven industry knowledge.
A network of professional contacts.

Think of yourself as already running a one-person business with your employer as your client. You can take the skills and knowledge from your job and offer them to a broader market.

Start by freelancing, identifying what clients value most, and iterating on your offers. Combine your technical abilities with evergreen skills like sales, marketing, content creation, and personal branding. This powerful combination can turn your expertise into a money-making machine.

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Step 3: Gather Testimonials

Social proof is critical to building trust and credibility. Whenever you receive positive feedback or achieve significant results, document it. Use tools like screenshots or simple notes in Google Drive or Notion to collect testimonials.

Not only do these testimonials help attract new clients, but they also serve as a reminder of your progress and impact during challenging times. They reinforce your ‘why’ and keep you motivated.

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Step 4: Join a Community

Building a business, especially online, can be lonely. Finding a community of like-minded individuals can make a significant difference. Regular interactions with others on a similar journey provide accountability and motivation.

Communities offer a place to share ideas, discuss challenges, and celebrate successes. Investing in such a community can fast-track your progress and provide invaluable support.

Step 5: Reinvest in Your Skillset

The best investment you can make is in yourself. While saving for retirement or investing in an index fund is wise, reinvesting in your skills and mindset can offer exponential returns.

Dedicate time and resources to learning new skills, whether through books, podcasts, online courses, or coaching. This continual self-improvement ensures that you’re always growing and adapting, setting the foundation for long-term success.

Step 6: Don’t Quit

Perseverance is the key to success. Talent is less important than consistent effort and persistence. Even if your initial attempts fail, remember that every successful person goes through setbacks.

Commit to showing up every day and executing your plan. Consistency over a span of 3–5 years almost guarantees significant progress. Enjoy the journey and embrace the fun in the process of building your dream business.