Tired of the 9 to 5 grind? Want to make some extra cash? You might be surprised by some of the strange side hustles that can actually pay pretty well. (And will also provide you with a lot of great stories!) Here are 5 of the wildest ones we’ve seen:
1. Professional cuddler
Okay, it sounds a little weird, but… if you love physical touch and have a calming presence (or if you happen to be a Golden Retriever), becoming a professional cuddler might be the perfect side hustle for you. Clients pay for your company and the opportunity to relax and unwind. This unique service can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with loneliness, anxiety, or stress. Professional cuddlers often work in private settings, like their own homes or rented spaces. They might also offer other services (no, not that!) like guided meditations or energy healing.
2. Pet psychic
Believe it or not, there’s a demand for people who claim to communicate with animals. If you think you have a special connection with pets, you could offer your services as a pet psychic. Some pet owners seek out psychics to gain insights into their pet’s thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Pet psychics may use things like tarot cards, meditation, or animal communication techniques to connect with animals.
3. Professional line waiter
Ever stood in line for hours for a concert or a hot sneaker drop? Well, some people are willing to pay others to do the waiting for them. As a professional line waiter, you get paid to stand in line for clients. This can be a good option if you’re patient and enjoy people-watching. Professional line waiters often work in cities with high demand for limited edition items or popular events.
4. Professional sleeper
Get paid to sleep? Yes, you can! If you love napping—and who doesn’t—this might be your dream job. Professional sleepers are hired to test beds, mattresses, and other sleep-related products. They get paid to sleep on the job! This unique role is essential for companies that want to make sure their products are comfortable and conducive to a good night’s sleep. Professional sleepers may also be asked to provide feedback on the quality of the sleep they get, as well as any other relevant observations.
5. Professional mourner
In some cultures, it’s customary to hire professional mourners to express grief at funerals. If you’re comfortable with emotional displays, this could be a unique and potentially lucrative side hustle. Professional mourners can provide emotional support and comfort to grieving families. They may also be asked to perform specific rituals or customs, such as wailing or chanting.
All of these side hustles definitely seem unconventional, but they show that there’s a market for almost everything. If you’re creative and willing to think outside the box, you might find a unique and profitable side hustle that’s perfect for you. Remember, the key to success in any side hustle is to find something you’re passionate (or at least don’t mind doing) about and that plays to your strengths.
