I quit a job that paid $500,000 a year, and it was the best decision I ever made — here are 5 tips for people who want to work for themselves

Courtesy of Susie Moore

18 months ago, I quit a job in New York City that paid $500,000 at age 30. Ever since I made this transition into self-funded "solopreneurship," countless people who want to do the same thing have asked me how I did it, and if it's possible for them, too.

In short, the answer is yes. But overnight? No way.

I wrote "What If It Does Work Out?" to show how and why you need to start making money outside of your 9-5 in order to have waaay more cash, freedom, and opportunities now and later.

Side gigs are growing like crazy — everyone from 20-somethings wanting more dough to party, to stay-at-home suburban moms, to 50-somethings approaching retirement are picking up work on the side.

The side hustles themselves range from teaching piano to creating organic skincare products to selling personal branding advice online. The creativity (and the income potential) is unlimited!

If you want to quit your job (and unless you have someone to bankroll you, which I certainly didn't), here's what you need to know:

1. Adapt or die: the importance of multiple income streams 

Never, ever rely on a single paycheck.

Economic uncertainty is at its worst. The cost of living has gone up. Conventional jobs continue to be replaced with technology.

You can never expect a job for life (or even for a year). Make sure that you have a minimum of two income streams in your life. These can come from your day job, side hustle, or even passive income, like a real estate investment.

The side hustle is the simplest, fastest way to dive into entrepreneurship, start making money on your terms, and ramp up a living, breathing business that belongs to you.

2. Add real value to others 

This point is of paramount importance. In order to make money via a side hustle, you have to add massive value to other people. People hate being sold to, but they love to buy — and they will buy what benefits them. So come up with your hustle idea based on how it helps people improve their lives.

Mine was becoming a life/business coach to individuals and an adviser to New York City and Silicon Valley startups. I achieved this without spending a cent before my business started making money. Using your existing knowledge plus initiative can help you achieve real results.

3. Get out there

In life and in business, the relationships you have are the most important things you possess. Your network is way bigger than you think, so use it! Don't be afraid to let your contacts know that your side hustle is alive and kicking by posting your work on your social media channels and starting an email list.

Most people will support you. Some of my corporate contacts became my biggest side-hustle supporters, and even my clients. You can't be afraid to self-promote!