Navigating New Opportunities: Insights from a Side Hustle in the Board Game Industry

Recent observations suggest that earning additional income can enhance fulfillment, irrespective of one's stage in life.

As I reflect on my current semi-retirement known as WifeFI, I've discovered the validity of that statement. A few weeks ago, a close friend approached me with an opportunity to assist with projects at a new board game publishing company where he recently took on the role of Director of Marketing. Although my background doesn't include expertise in gaming beyond the classic Monopoly, the prospect was too enticing to pass up.

Engaging in this side project has not only provided me with extra income but has also rekindled a sense of productivity that I hadn't realized was missing. The satisfaction derived from this venture differs significantly from traditional 9-to-5 jobs or even part-time positions. While volunteering or being a Stay-At-Home Dad, activities that come with their own rewards, don't provide direct financial compensation, this new role adds a unique dimension of fulfillment to my life.

The new board game gig perfectly aligns with my Triad of Hustling, my established criteria for evaluating projects. For any side endeavor, I assess three key variables:

1. TIME: How much time will the project require?
2. MONEY: What is the compensation for the work?
3. FUN: How enjoyable will the project be?

By achieving a favorable balance across these factors, opportunities become far more enticing. If a project aligns with one of the three positively, it may not merit a pursuit. Meanwhile, two out of three indicators signal good potential, whereas an ideal scenario presents all three variables working in harmony. This board game role has indeed been a home run: collaboration with a good friend, flexibly working five to ten hours a week, and the chance to engage my marketing skills.

Diving into a Thriving Community

This role has unwrapped an unexpected and exciting realm: the gaming industry and its vibrant community. Much akin to the personal finance sector, the gaming world boasts numerous influencers who actively engage audiences through myriad platforms, including YouTube, podcasts, TikTok, and blogs. The community encapsulates inclusivity and advocacy for learning through real-life experiences. It's inspiring to witness how individuals in this domain promote curiosity and engagement among enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.

Being fairly compensated for my contributions only adds to the appeal of this engagement. I find myself feeling even more assured in my decision to embrace a quasi-retirement lifestyle. The income generated from this side venture is earmarked for covering life's unpredictable aspects, such as flat tires or medical expenses associated with ongoing treatments for my condition, Pemphigus, which incurs hefty costs—over $20,000 per round of treatment. Thankfully, insurance alleviates much of the financial burden, yet I find myself responsible for approximately $1,600 out-of-pocket expenses per treatment cycle.

Strategic Financial Planning

By utilizing the income from this role, I can maintain liquidity and mitigate any unanticipated expenses that may arise. Our financial strategy has so far ensured that we haven't had to dip into our investments during this semi-retirement phase, as my wife’s salary effectively covers our living costs. This approach aligns with the concept of Wife-FI, securing our financial well-being while allowing for some flexibility.

Plans for the additional earnings include fulfilling unexpected "wants" and considerations for donations to causes that resonate with our values. This budgetary allocation allows us the freedom to enhance our lifestyle while maintaining prudence.

Interestingly, while I never anticipated becoming involved in the board game community, this chapter in my life has opened up numerous possibilities. The presence of board game conferences worldwide speaks to this thriving sector, suggesting networking opportunities that could yield further prospects for collaboration or fun. It feels both exhilarating and daunting that such opportunities are present where I least expected them.

As I navigate this new role, it becomes clear that my experiences so far are shaped by an intriguing mixture of chance and diligence. While I might have been unprepared for this shift, acknowledging the fluidity of life seems essential in this increasingly dynamic environment. Just as it’s critical to be open to new experiences to harness the potential they carry, remaining adaptable and responsive could yield rewarding outcomes in various aspects of life.

So here I am, stepping fully into this new role while embracing my identity as part of a growing board game enthusiast community. I’m curious to know if others share similar experiences or have attended events that celebrate this hobby. After all, who could’ve predicted a career pivot like this? It’s a reminder that opportunities often emerge unexpectedly, reminding us to keep an open mind as we journey through life.

XOXO,

UPDATE: Ironically, just over seven weeks into this venture, I've faced an unexpected turn and have been laid off from the board game position. Although the universe seems to have a way of snatching away just as quickly as it provides, I appreciate the experience and fun it brought during its brief tenure.

*Note on medical costs: Understanding the high stakes involved in treatments reminds me of the unpredictable nature of health expenses and emphasizes effective budgeting and planning.