Side hustle starting to drain you? When to throw in the towel on your side business

Spending endless hours building something you’re passionate about takes perseverance, but sometimes, it doesn’t turn out how you expected.

She was working full time as a structural engineer, and helping to build a consultancy firm that advises employees and companies on diversity, equity and inclusion — on top of juggling the busyness of everyday life.

When her side business picked up, the multitasking came to a head and she knew she had to decide: make the switch to full-time consultant or walk away entirely.

“It started to get to a point where I felt like I was burning out,” she recalled.

“Financially, I didn’t feel ready. It also just felt incredibly emotional.”

Spending endless hours building something you’re passionate about takes perseverance, but sometimes, it doesn’t turn out how you expected. Often, many people trying to build a business feel exhausted or on the brink financially, but walking away may feel like turning your back on your dreams. Experts say taking an analytical approach can help determine if it’s time to throw in the towel.