MONETIZE - 1. earn revenue from (an asset, business, etc).

2. convert into or express in the form of currency.

Although, we are equal; we are not created the same. We are as unique as the design on our fingerprint.

Think about that for a second… You are different than your colleagues, your friends, and even your siblings. You may find peace where others see caos. You have a passion for something but you may have allowed for life to get in between you and your passion nonetheless, there is something that you enjoy doing. Whether that is drawing, cooking, organizing, sewing, creating, teaching, you name it. There is something that you enjoy doing and that you’re good at. So I challenge you to monetize on that passion. In today’s world, we all need a side hustle and I have never heard a single soul turn down the opportunity at bringing in more income.

I’ve been writing since I was 12 but it wasn’t until 2018 when I began sharing my writing on a social media platform, that it actually began to catch the eyes of others. Imagine had I started sharing my creativity sooner… I could have monetized on my passion earlier than 2018; and probably have more books out and a larger client base. There… I just told you where to start on monetizing your passion…

1. Showcase your passion on the platform that you feel will best suit you and your talent; and be consistent with it. POST YOUR WORK and most importantly, use a watermark or some stamp on it so that others do not steal your work or idea.

2. Learn from others that are successfully monetizing on a similar passion. Study them, but NEVER COPY. Create pricing for your service, craft, knowledge, etc. What are you going to charge when you have your first client in front of you wanting to buy what you have to offer?

   3. NETWORK! Expose yourself and your work to like minded people. They may not need what you can do for them at that moment, but they may need it later or know someone that does. Reach out to entities that you want to work with. Yes, I know that putting yourself out there can be uncomfortable if you’re an introvert like myself, but it takes time and practice so start now. As you begin to network, start getting real professional.

   4. Create an LLC. Make your passion an OFFICIAL BUSINESS AND MONETIZE ON IT. If you want to be taken seriously, you need a storefront. Whether that is a social media platform, your very own website, or a store that accepts walk in customers. People need to know where to go and how to reach you to buy your stuff.

The only thing that will hold you back is your own fear of failing and doubting your ability to thrive. Shift your mindset. Replace those negative thoughts into positive and soon you’ll be your own boss.