In 2025, Kaila Curry faced a layoff from Meta, leading her to take on a part-time ice cream scooping job at Lady Moo Moo in Brooklyn for $16.50 per hour. Surrounded by highly accomplished professionals in similar situations, Curry found a sense of community and purpose in her temporary gig.

The job market in 2025 saw over 1.2 million job cuts, with the technology sector leading layoffs. Unemployment rose to 4.6% in November, prompting many Americans to hold onto their current roles for stability rather than seek new opportunities, a phenomenon known as “job hugging.”

Side hustles are on the rise, with 45% of Americans having at least one to cover essential living expenses. While they can provide financial support, side gigs also come with challenges such as unpredictability, lack of benefits, and potential burnout if not managed carefully.

Using side hustle income strategically can help achieve financial goals like paying off debt, building emergency savings, or investing in long-term growth. It’s essential to set clear earnings goals, assess tradeoffs regularly, and view side gigs as a bridge to new opportunities rather than a permanent solution.

In a challenging job market, side hustles offer a sense of control and financial support. However, it’s crucial to balance the benefits with potential drawbacks like burnout and complications with unemployment benefits. Strategic budgeting and goal-setting can maximize the value of side gig income for long-term financial stability.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Ex-Meta employee now scoops ice cream to stay afloat. How side gigs are saving professionals frozen out of job market