Making Money in Stupid Ways!

I didn't know there were so many stupid ways to make money! As a self-proclaimed experienced side hustler, I've found some of the most financially and personally rewarding gigs can seem a bit unorthodox at first glance.

I had no idea just how many wacky ways there were to earn extra cash! As someone who loves trying new things, I've really embraced thinking outside the box when it comes to making money. Sure, I could stick to traditional side gigs like driving for Uber or walking dogs, but where's the fun in that? I want adventure!

In this guide, I'll share some out-of-the-box yet proven ways to earn extra income, from getting paid to fetch shopping carts to renting out storage space in your home. These may not be careers to brag about at a cocktail party, but they can deliver surprising earnings and the satisfaction of trying something new.

While initially strange, once you see real money flowing in, your perspective on these unique side hustles changes. Focus on the income potential and sense of adventure rather than perceived strangeness.

The key is approaching each opportunity with an open mind, professional work ethic, and consistent effort. I aim to present unconventional ideas worth considering, not get-rich-quick gimmicks. My goal is helping you discover fulfilling and lucrative jobs beyond just surveys and receipts.

So if you're willing to think outside the herd mentality and forge your own path, read on for an insider's look at the unexpected freedom these offbeat side hustles offer. You get to define success on your own creative terms.

Stupid Money-Making Idea 1: Becoming a Mystery Shopper

I've been a mystery shopper for the past year. I've gotten to go behind the scenes and evaluate numerous local businesses up close, and I'm here to tell you that it's a fascinating way to earn money.

Here's an inside look at this unique gig:

As a mystery shopper, your job is to pose as a normal customer while covertly assessing aspects like customer service, store cleanliness, inventory, and displays. Companies provide you with specific tasks and an evaluation checklist for each assignment.

After completing the undercover shop, you submit a detailed report of your experience. I make sure to remain objective and thorough in my reports, which provides helpful insights the client can use to improve.

Here are some of the pros and cons I've experienced:

Pros:

• Flexible income of $10-$20 per assignment on average
• Reimbursements for purchase tasks
• Free products
• Insider access to businesses

Cons:

• Requires patience and an eye for detail
• You need to blend in without raising suspicion while closely observing
• The reporting is time-intensive

Overall, I highly recommend mystery shopping to anyone who is looking for a flexible and fun way to earn money. Just know that it requires more effort than you may initially think!

If you're interested in becoming a mystery shopper, I recommend signing up with a reputable company like Shopper Now. They have amazing communication and handle all your taxes for you, so you don't need to worry about getting an ABN.

Stupid Money-Making Idea 2: Turning Your Spendings into Cash: Exploring the World of Cashback Programs

I used to think that cashback programs were a scam. Why would anyone pay me to shop at certain stores? But then I decided to give it a try, and I was amazed at how much money I was leaving on the table by not using them.

Now, I make it a habit to check my cashback apps before I make any purchase, online or in-store. I've earned hundreds of dollars in cashback over the past year, just by shopping at stores that I already shop at and buying things that I already need.

Apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Dosh partner with retailers to offer cash rewards for customer purchases. Just take a photo of your receipt through the app and cha-ching! You'll get 1-10% of the purchase price back.

Once you hit the minimum payout, you can cash out to PayPal or gift cards. It’s so silly and stupidly simple! But it really works.

Exploring the Cashback Landscape: Cashrewards, ShopBack, ZipPay, and More

There's a whole world of cashback programs out there waiting to reward you for your spending. Let's dive into a few popular ones that can help you turn those receipts into real money:

1. Cashrewards: With Cashrewards, you can earn cashback on purchases from a wide range of retailers. Whether you're shopping for clothing, electronics, or even groceries, this platform has got you covered. Get $10 on Cashrewards here.

2. ShopBack: If you're a savvy online shopper, ShopBack is your go-to destination. This platform offers cashback rewards for purchases made through their partnered online retailers. It's like getting paid for your online shopping addiction!

3. ZipPay: Ever wished you could get cashback on your everyday expenses? ZipPay is here to make that wish come true. By using their app, you can earn cashback on everything from groceries to utilities, transforming your regular purchases into a lucrative income stream. Get $10 here.

Stupid Money-Making Idea 3: Professional Extra – Embrace the Spotlight with Me

I've always loved movies and TV shows, so when I heard about the opportunity to become a professional extra, I jumped at it. I figured it would be a fun way to make some extra money and see my favorite stars up close.

I was surprised at how easy it was to get started. I simply joined a talent agency and got some headshots taken. Within a few weeks, I was getting booked for jobs.

Here are some tips for becoming a professional extra:

• Create a profile on extra casting websites.
• Be prepared to submit your headshot and resume.
• Be flexible with your schedule.
• Be prepared to wait long hours on set.
• Be professional and courteous to the cast and crew.

Being a professional extra has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I've met some amazing people, seen some incredible things, and made some lifelong friends.

I've also earned a decent amount of money. Extras typically get paid between $100 and $200 per day, depending on the production. I've done jobs that have paid as much as $500 per day.

If you're looking for a fun and easy way to make some extra money, I highly recommend becoming a professional extra. It's a great way to get involved in the entertainment industry and meet some amazing people.

Bonus tip:

If you're serious about becoming a professional extra, I recommend joining a local extra agency. This will give you access to more jobs and help you network with other extras and industry professionals.

Making Money and Memories: The Practical Side of Being an Extra

Whilst being a professional extra may seem like a whimsical pursuit, it's also one of the better ways to earn some extra cash. Productions are always in need of background actors, and I've found that the pay can be quite rewarding. Not only am I able to indulge in my love for movies and television, but I'm also getting compensated for my time and presence on set. It's a win-win situation where I can pursue my passion while padding my bank account.

Although I must admit, the true reward is the friendships that you form, I still keep in contact with friends I made from my very first day on set! Shout out to Jesse, who's constantly doing amazing things and currently starring in some of the most renowned theatre productions of our time! Also, Ruva, who is officially an architect (Woo!) and also one of the most breathtaking models in the industry.

Stupid Money-Making Idea 4: Watch Videos for Cash

I've always been a bit of a couch potato, so when I heard about the opportunity to make money by watching videos, I was intrigued. I figured it was the perfect way to get paid for doing something I already do anyway.

I signed up for a few video monetization platforms, and I've been pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to earn money. Most of the platforms pay you a few cents per video, but it adds up quickly, especially if you watch a lot of videos.

In addition to the regular earnings, many of the platforms also offer incentives and rewards, such as bonus points for watching a certain number of videos in a day or week. You can redeem these points for cash, gift cards, or other prizes.

I use Swagbucks to do this, you can sign up and receive a $5 bonus here.

Stupid Money-Making Idea 5: Cash in on Your Old Books

I've always been a bookworm, so I have a lot of old books that I've accumulated over the years. When I decided to declutter my home, I started thinking about ways to get rid of my old books without just throwing them away.

I decided to try selling some of my old books online. I set up my Facebook Marketplace, and I was surprised at how easy it was to start selling. I simply listed my books with photos and descriptions, and within a few days, I started getting offers.

I've sold over $300 worth of old books online so far. It's been a great way to declutter my home and make some extra money at the same time.

If you want to know more about how you can make money reselling, check out this post.

Lessons Learned and Takeaways: Embrace Uniqueness and Discover Niche Markets