Not Enough with One Salary: The "Side Hustle" Phenomenon and the Dilemma of Young Workers
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The side hustle phenomenon, or taking on additional work, is gaining momentum and becoming part of the lifestyle of young workers, especially Generation Z entering the workforce.
Amid economic pressures, rising living costs, and demands for continuous development, many choose not to rely on a single source of income.
On the other hand, advancements in digital technology open up new opportunities for flexible jobs that can be pursued alongside a main occupation.
Behind these challenges, many workers utilise their free time for additional productive activities, either in the form of freelance work or creative projects.
Rama (26), a content writer at a startup company, is one example of a young worker engaging in side hustles driven by financial needs as well as a desire for growth.
He admits that his main job income is sufficient for basic needs but does not provide a sense of security for unexpected expenses.
Rama shares that his decision to start a side hustle was also influenced by his surroundings, where others had succeeded first.
“At that time, I saw a friend who successfully got clients through Instagram, and I saw the opportunity as realistic,” said Rama when met by Kompas.com at his residence in South Jakarta on Thursday (26/3/2026).
Besides the open market opportunities, the desire to expand his portfolio is another motivation for Rama.
Rama views side hustles as a platform to learn new things beyond his main job while enhancing his value in an increasingly competitive work world.
His interest in digital illustration became the entry point for starting side work. This hobby was then developed into an additional source of income through various digital platforms.
“I also like making digital illustrations, so I eventually thought of selling designs on freelance platforms like Fiverr and Instagram. It started with needing extra money and wanting to channel my hobby,” he said.
Through this additional work, he not only gains income but also new experiences in design and branding.
“For example, I make illustrations or social media banners, which also train my design and branding skills. So I get two benefits: learning new things and extra money,” he said.
Behind the benefits, side hustles also bring significant changes to Rama’s daily routine. His working hours become longer, with activities running almost non-stop from morning to night.
“In the morning to afternoon at the office writing articles, then until night handling client designs. Sometimes on weekends, I have to photograph products or create mockups,” he said.
As a result, rest time and social life are also affected.