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Independent Singapore
5 hours ago
- Independent Singapore
‘We make S$5000/month!' — Singaporean couple turns their S$1M condo into a passive income machine with 10 side hustle recommendations, working from home
SINGAPORE: What if your condo could make you money while you bake sourdough, play with dogs, or teach a workshop — all without stepping out of your front door? Meet Darien, a former tech sales professional from Singapore who quit the 9-to-5 life to travel full-time, live on his own terms, and help others do the same. Alongside his partner Joanna, Darien has transformed their home into a multi-stream income engine, generating over S$3,000 to S$5,000 a month through practical, proven side hustles that are perfect for 2025. In a video that has been making waves among aspiring entrepreneurs, Darien breaks down 10 legitimate side hustles that Singaporeans can start right now. Some require skills, others need hustle, but all are achievable. Here's the breakdown, ranked by the time you need to put in and how tough it is to earn your first S$100. Home-based hustles: No office, no dress code, no problem 1. Home Café — Your oven could be a goldmine Before he was jetting off on full-time adventures, Darien and his partner Joanna were stirring up profits right at home. Their first taste of profit came from the smell of freshly baked goods. 'We started baking from home and expanded into two physical retail outlets, doing baking workshops even while we were still students,' Darien recalls. Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna Thanks to platforms like Acuppa , anyone can start a home-based food business with zero licensing hassles. TikTok and GoBusiness tools help build your brand fast, without the high overhead of a retail space. Home-based cafés are booming in Singapore. Acuppa even lists neighbourhood food entrepreneurs, and the good news is that you don't even need a licence to get started. Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna Time investment: 3/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 3/5 Get your first few customers, prove your product works, and you might just rise like your best sourdough loaf. 2. Workshops — Teach what you love (and multiply your income) Why bake for people when you can bake with them — and get paid more for it? It takes you four hours to bake a cake. But if you host a workshop and get four participants to bake with you, each paying S$80, you just quadrupled your earnings, Darien explains. That's S$320 for the same four hours. 'This is also why we pivoted our business from selling cakes to doing workshops,' says Darien. Photo: Freepik (for illustration purposes only) Baking, pottery, floral arranging — whatever your craft, workshops let you earn more while sharing what you love. Workshops are one-time efforts that become repeatable events. Once you've built the curriculum, it's wash, rinse, repeat — just like those dishes after class. Time investment: 3/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 2/5 You can also conduct other workshops, from pottery to flower arrangements, to make your weekend hobby earn you enough to pay your rent. 3. Carousell — The marketplace that keeps surprising! Darien's dive into sourdough baking led to an unexpected epiphany: there's real demand for sourdough starters. He listed an extra sourdough starter one night and got his first sale within hours. 'You can't buy it from the store. So I managed to get it from a friend, multiplied it, and listed it on Carousell . That night, someone bought it.' Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna You can list anything valuable — vintage clothes, books, old tech… even your workshops. And add four items lying around worth S$30 on the list, that's your first S$100! So you see, you don't need a warehouse full of products — just a few things people want. Even your fermented flour can work. Carousell is still king! Time investment: 1/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 2/5 Four listings at S$30 each, and you're already there. Skill-based hustles: Hands-on, heart-in, high reward 4. Pet-sitting — Paws, play, and paydays! If you love dogs or any animals, for that matter, you might already qualify. Your spare room could turn into a pet daycare. Darien knows someone who became one of the top pet sitters on Pawshake , hosting up to 10 dogs a day at S$40 each. That's S$400 a day! — No barking mad math there. Photo: Freepik (for illustration purposes only). 'It hardly feels like work,' Darien says, 'especially if you love animals.' Time investment: 3/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 1/5 One weekend of furry fun and wagging tails could already hit your target. 5. Tuition — Because Singaporeans will pay for A's Singaporeans don't mess around with education. That's why tuition — especially in core subjects — remains another goldmine. If you're strong academically, tuition's a no-brainer. Even better, you don't have to go solo either because home-based centres let you franchise their curriculum. 'There are home-based tuition centres that let you franchise their materials, so you don't have to start from scratch,' says Darien. Photo: Freepik (for illustration purposes only). Time investment: 2/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 1/5 One or two quick sessions, and you're already in the green for triple digits. 6. Commission-based tech sales — No salary, just straight hustle If you're not into kids or calculus, but you've got the gift of persuasion, then commission-based tech sales might be your playground. Early-stage tech startups are always looking for people who can sell and close deals. You're not paid for your time, though — you're paid for your results, Darien notes. But the upside is massive! Master cold outreach on LinkedIn , learn the tools, and your S$100 becomes a foot in the door for bigger deals. Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna This one isn't easy, but it pays dividends in income and network. Time investment: 4/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 4/5 Again, master cold calls and outreach, and it might just become your full-time gig. 7. Community sales rep: Sell what you believe in through WhatsApp, not stores If you prefer something more human and less hustle culture, community-based sales are perfect for introverts with a cause. No cold calls, just warm referrals. Many niche brands prefer reps to retail. Think wellness, skincare, or household products sold via personal networks and weekend pop-ups. 'Pick brands you truly believe in — most are always recruiting,' Darien advises. Photo: Freepik Some brands really don't want retail space — they want people who can sell through WhatsApp, social media direct messaging, or word of mouth. From essential oils to ergonomic chairs, just pick what you love and start talking. Time investment: 3/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 3/5 Your inner circle could become your first customer base. 8. Coaching — Share the knowledge; your story could become someone else's solution Whether it's life coaching, career coaching, content coaching, or mindset mentoring, if you've done something impressive, chances are, someone wants to learn from you. When Darien left his job, he became a career coach in Bali. 'In the first two months of leaving my job, I went to Bali, and because I had a proven track record in tech sales, I became a coach for people who wanted to switch into (tech sales),' Darien shares. 'Each cohort lasted eight weeks with weekly Zoom sessions.' Photo: pikisuperstar Start with one-on-one sessions and scale to groups. If you've done something others want to achieve, this is your lane. And then go on to live your Bali dream. Time investment: 3/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 2/5 The transformation you've made could be someone else's breakthrough. 9. Start a micro-agency: Sell solutions, not hours If you know how to run ads, have skills in design, create social content, marketing, or build websites, consider packaging those skills into a service business. Skip freelancing — start an agency. Darien launched livestream services during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping small businesses stay visible. 'During COVID… I reached out to top livestreamers in Singapore, partnered with them, and started offering livestreaming services to small businesses. We (even) sold durian… during National Day,' he shared. Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna Focus on results, not the hours. Clients care more about conversions or outcomes than your calendar or time sheets. Done-for-you packages are key. Time investment: 5/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 3/5 Takes time, but once it clicks, it scales—serious payoff if you really stick with it. Creative and content-based hustles: Create. Publish. Repeat. 10. Content Creation — From TikTok to passive profits; build once, earn forever (hopefully) Just like any other hustler we've heard from before, Darien also doesn't sugarcoat it. Content creation is slow, hard, and often thankless — at first. 'This one takes a lot of time, but it has an insane upside,' he says. So, whether you're on YouTube, TikTok, or doing UGC (User Generated Content) for brands, content is also king, and getting crowned does take time. But the goal is simple: create content people care about. If you're shy, then just go faceless. If you're outgoing, then build a personal brand. 'It takes a long, long time to build your audience… The first S$100 could take months. But the next S$1,000 could be passive.' Photo: YT screengrab/@darienandjoanna Time investment: 5/5 Difficulty to make first S$100: 5/5 Go faceless with storytelling, or build a personal brand. It's not quick, but it's powerful. Darien's parting advice 'The best side hustle is the one that you can stick with for at least 6 to 12 months to really see it pay off.' Whether you're making muffins, managing mutts, or mentoring future tech bros, consistency is the real money-maker. Darien and Joanna didn't get rich overnight — but their decision to design life on their own terms is paying off in spades (and sourdough). And when it comes to surviving the Lion City, where hustle often meets burnout, Darien's message is a refreshing shift: design life around what matters. Earning more and working less isn't just a dream — it's a strategy. So then, which one will you start with first? To learn more about Darien's full breakdown and personal journey, watch his inspiring video below. You'll get even in-depth details, real-life examples, and tips to kick off your 2025 with a smarter hustle. Read related: 5 genius ways Singaporean Gen Zs can turn side hustles into six-figure careers with just $5 or less and a smartphone
Independent Singapore
5 hours ago
- Independent Singapore
‘Barely anyone left to do the work': Employee says company is using 'restructuring' as a cover to cut staff without replacements
SINGAPORE: A Singaporean employee recently shared on social media that her company has been letting staff go without hiring proper replacements, all under the excuse of 'restructuring.' She said this has left the remaining staff struggling to cope with the workload. 'All they like to talk about is money, money, money, bring in more money, but when the money comes in, there is barely anyone that has the capacity to do the work,' she wrote on r/askSingapore on Friday (July 4). 'Team morale is very low and I can foresee people leaving. Even I want to leave.' Despite wanting to resign, she explained that she is holding back because the industry she works in is very small, and there are not many job openings that match her skills. She ended her post by asking others about their own experiences. 'I don't really have an objective for this post,' she wrote. 'But I'm just curious how things are going in your company. Lots of news of layoffs and businesses shutting down. Is there this anxiety or fear that you would be the next one? Any talks of downsizing?' See also A fascinating interview with SingularityNET CEO Ben Goertzel 'Honestly, I think a lot of companies aren't doing that well.' The post quickly gained traction, with many users sharing that they were experiencing similar challenges at their own workplaces. One commenter said their situation was almost identical to the original poster's. 'Are we working at the same company?' they asked. 'Everything I'm facing matches what you said. I feel like I'm just tahan-ing for the paycheck. But also too burnt out to try looking for new jobs in the meantime.' Another individual recounted having already been laid off earlier this year. During a one-on-one meeting, their supervisor informed them that the company could no longer afford their position and encouraged them to resign. They added, 'I'm jobless right now and looking for new opportunities while managing a new flat mortgage. Honestly, I think a lot of companies aren't doing that well. You don't see the panicking beneath the surface, but most so-called 'leaders' are awful.' A third shared, 'Same here. The company has reduced the headcount in Singapore. Compass rule and global slowdown have dropped our headcounts from 120 to just 70 in a year!!! Resulting in more revenue drop and started talk of complete shutdown of SG branch.' Amid these shared experiences, some commenters offered practical advice. One urged others to keep their résumés and LinkedIn profiles updated, even if they are not actively job hunting. 'I find that worry and uncertainty feels less if you know you're ready to start job hunting at any moment,' they said. 'And if you really feel like there's no point in staying and things are starting to go south quickly, then start sending out those resumes. Don't wait for the axe to fall.' What's driving the layoffs? In a 2024 report by The Straits Times , UOB senior economist Alvin Liew explained that earlier rounds of layoffs were largely due to economic uncertainty, rising interest rates, and overhiring during the pandemic. Many companies, especially in tech, expanded too quickly in response to temporary demand. However, Liew noted that the reasons behind job cuts have since shifted. A major new factor is the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is changing how companies operate and reducing the need for certain roles. Liew added that these layoffs have not been limited to Singapore, but have also been happening in major global tech hubs since 2022. Read also: 'I was really uncomfortable': Singapore commuter says 'weird guy' kept leaning into her space on MRT Featured image by freepik (for illustration purposes only)
Independent Singapore
5 hours ago
- Independent Singapore
Man surprised by sarcastic comments about S$100k by 30 financial goal, says it can be a strong motivator
SINGAPORE: A Singaporean man has offered his thoughts on Reddit after noticing users ridicule the idea of saving $100,000 by the age of 30. In a post on r/singaporefi, he shared that he had come across a discussion about this financial milestone and was taken aback by the amount of backlash and 'sarcastic comments' it received. He then offered his perspective, saying that financial benchmarks like this could actually be useful. While acknowledging that people come from different backgrounds and that those from wealthier families naturally have a head start, he felt that setting a clear goal like this could serve as motivation for others to work towards financial stability. 'If you know that your background may be less wealthy than others, wouldn't you be motivated to work harder to catch up to the rest?' he said. 'After all, nobody wants to be below average in Singapore, so this may actually encourage people to learn proper financial planning at a younger age and then do better for themselves. Not all comparisons are bad, it's only bad if you react negatively when you realise you are behind, but not everyone is like that,' he concluded. See also 5 Fashionable Ways of Saving on Your Wardrobe Cost Wanting to hear more perspectives, he posed a simple question to the community: 'Why is having a financial benchmark to hit a bad thing?' 'You cannot force all to have the same thinking as you.' The post quickly drew a mix of responses. Several users agreed with his perspective, noting that setting financial goals is a personal decision and can be beneficial when approached with the right mindset. One Singaporean Reddit user said, 'Don't think anything is wrong… This is an individual thing. Everyone has their own benchmark. Mine is no mortgage by 40… ' 'It's just that when you share and discuss it, be prepared for feedback because everyone thinks differently and has their own opinion.' Another user echoed this sentiment, writing, 'It is good to have a goal: S$100k by 30, S$1m by 65, S$3m by 30, or whatever your goal or benchmark is, it's all good.' 'But if you take it to the public, just prepare for public comment—you cannot force all to have the same thinking as you or share the same vision.' Others, however, shared a different view. One said, 'What's the point of the benchmark for motivation? Reach it in time and pat yourself on the back? Fail to reach it in time and then kick yourself?' 'It is pointless; come up with a plan for success and keep to it. Because when you reach your first S$100k, you will just want more, so just stick to a plan.' In other news, a man shared on social media that he's 'getting sick' of his girlfriend's behaviour of cluttering their home with unnecessary items. Writing on the r/askSingapore forum on Tuesday (July 1), he explained in a now-deleted post that his girlfriend has a habit of buying things on impulse. Not expensive items, but just random things that catch her eye, even if she rarely uses them. Over time, their home has become packed with unused items filling shelves, drawers, tables, and corners, collecting dust. Read more: 'Sick of it': Man rants about his girlfriend's habit of cluttering their home with unnecessary items, seeks advice on Reddit See also Q&A Interview with Kai Yang Lee - SMU Accountancy Student Featured image by freepik (for illustration purposes only)
