Here are 4 top tips for balancing your work-life

Hey, side hustlers! We see you. Juggling meetings by day and honing your craft by night – it's a lot. Whether you’re baking sweet treats, building websites, or designing dog collars, running a business alongside a full-time job takes grit, graft and – let’s be honest – a little bit of gruntwork.

That’s why we’ve pulled together 4 simple, but effective, ways to keep your balance in check. Plus, some inspiration from Andy Heathershaw, founder of Waggybytes and Principal Engineer at Journey. Andy’s been there, done that, and still finds time to walk the dog.

1. Take active downtime

Look, we get it – after a long day, sometimes you just want to collapse on the sofa and scroll until the sun goes down. But that kind of rest doesn’t always leave you feeling recharged. Instead, opt for some active downtime – go for a walk, do a bit of yoga, read a book… anything that gives your brain a proper break (while keeping it switched on).

Andy’s a big advocate of this, “I love taking Mickey, my 10 year-old labrador, out for walks. It gives me time away from the screen. And when I have more time, I’ll squeeze in a visit to Disneyland!”

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Fasthosts says: Find what re-energises you – and schedule it in just like any other task.

2. Don’t take it too seriously

Your side hustle matters. But unless you’re saving lives, it’s okay if everything doesn’t get ticked off in a single day. An overflowing inbox or missed self-imposed deadline isn’t the end of the world.

As Andy says, “Just keep the fun. When it comes to Waggybytes, I always think, it’s just software – nobody died. It’s important never to take yourself too seriously.”

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Fasthosts says: Take the pressure off, and give yourself permission to enjoy the process.

3. Make it a passion project

The best side hustles start from something you genuinely want to do. When you’re passionate about your project, it doesn’t feel like work – even if you’re squeezing it into evenings and weekends.

Andy’s motivation came from the perfect mix of personal and professional passions: “Waggybytes combines my two passions – my dog, Mickey, and technology. I love helping my clients find the right solution for their business.”

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Fasthosts says: Whether you're sketching caricatures at street markets or solving digital headaches for SMEs, make sure you do what you love.

4. Choose the right partner

Having someone in your corner makes all the difference – whether that’s a supportive partner who wrangles the kids, or a hosting provider that takes the tech off your plate.

Andy’s got both: “My other half is great at taking care of the kids when I need to focus on work.” And on Fasthosts: “I love you guys and we really are partners. Price is number one for me – Fasthosts are very cost efficient and reliable. The local support is brilliant too, especially for data sovereignty. I’ve never had a bad experience.”

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Fasthosts says: The Fasthosts Partner Programme gives you the tools and support to scale your side hustle. From discounts and referrals to 24/7 UK-based support, we’re with you every step of the way.

Find your balance

Keeping your side hustle sustainable is all about energy – what drains it, and what fuels it. Take active downtime. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Choose a project you love. And surround yourself with people (and providers) who’ve got your back.

Fancy teaming up with a Partner who gets it? Check out the Fasthosts Partner Programme – and while you’re at it, take a look at what Andy’s been building over at Waggybytes. You’ll love it.