Superpowers & Side Hustles
Can your Superhero come out and play? Here are some observations about the advent of Side Hustles as a mechanism for releasing the pent up Superhero within. But first, a poll:
Burning Question: What’s your side hustle? Shoot me a quick reply and send me a pic or two.
⭐ SOMETHING TO INSPIRE
In the superhero narrative, most heroes have an “alter ego.” Think:
Batman —> Bruce Wayne
Black Panther —> T’Challa
Wonder Woman —> Diana Prince
Spiderman —> Peter Parker
The alter ego, in superhero tropes, usually refers to the frumpy, responsible, mild-mannered person who pays the bills. The hero is the dynamic self who comes out at night, or during times of danger, and unleashes special powers in the service of the community. I'm seeing a metaphorical correlation in which our “side hustles” could be considered a place where our suppressed Superpowers can find expression.
I think a lot of us — speaking from experience here — fell into our professions. We needed to pay the bills. I remember the desperation I felt early in my career when I was confronted with the daunting task of trying to provide for my family. I didn’t have the luxury of taking my time, or being discerning. I am grateful for every job I’ve had, including the job I have now. And on top of that, I’ve learned to deeply enjoy my work.
But now, later in life, I have more space to do the things I want to do, instead of mostly doing the things I had to do to earn a check. My side hustle (writing, coaching, speaking) are ways that I get to directly apply my Superpower of “Authentic Connection for Mutual Progress.”
I see so many people in this community who are harnessing their Superpowers via their side hustles. It excites and encourages me!
For some of us, our side hustles will be a therapeutic release that coexists with our day job. For others, our side hustles will end up providing an off ramp for our day jobs and a pivot into our areas of greater passion.
Regardless, the Superpower Community is a place for your inner Superhero to come out and play, and for your side hustle to be revealed and showcased for the group.
*What’s your side hustle? Shoot me a quick reply and send me a pic or two.
Also, if you want to dig deeper into the relationship between Superpowers and Side Hustles, check out this conversation between myself and Michelle Rundio, host of the podcast “Hustle and Climb” which offers tactical ideas for how to grow your side hustle.
Check out some amazing Heroes and their alter egos below!
👨🏽🌾 FARMER’S MARKET
This section is a showcase of some of the proud creations of Superpower Community members.
📢 Leave an encouraging comment!
David Fenton | The Artistic Craftsman
About: He’s a Safety Manager by day; but by night, he is a high-end custom furniture artisan, bringing incredible creativity and precise execution. He’s also a dope visual artist. See some creations below, dreamed up, designed, and executed based on a discovery process with the client. He’s an artist, not a contractor, so he doesn’t need a spec. He works best when he has the freedom to dream and execute to create the “wow” moment after a deep dive with the person commissioning the piece.
Samples:
Links: www.theartisticcraftsman.com
How Can You Support? If you need high-end custom furniture, or know anyone who has a custom project, let me know! [johnny@superpowerquest.com]
James Gonzales | Visual Artist
About: He’s a high school art teacher by day; but by night, he creates amazing works of art, including handmade limited edition sports posters and a variety of other shenanigans.
Samples:
Links:
How Can You Support? Check out his work and leave a comment here!
📜 THE SUPERPOWER CREED
The Superpower Community is a place to grow in my unique design, celebrate the gifts of others, and (maybe even) join forces for big wins. I am invited to dream big and support the dreams of others!
🔦 CONNECTION SPOTLIGHT (COMING SOON)
Joining Forces is the best! I am going to start describing “wins” inside this community: connections that have created high value for both parties. You could be next!
These connections might be in the realm of:
Job Opportunity | Consulting Contract | Friendship | Artistic Collaboration | Joint Venture | Services Contract
✨ INSPIRED?
Here are things you can do, both to press into the benefits and support the work.
Tell me a big dream, need, or challenge. Step one of making progress is making someone aware! Just reply to this email.
Enable more of this work by financially supporting! https://superpowerquest.substack.com/subscribe
Buy a copy of my book for a friend! https://www.amazon.com/Superpower-Quest-Heros-Unlocking-Potential/dp/B0D1GVFSD2
Book me for a Power-Up Session for yourself or a loved one going through transition. This is an opportunity to leap towards your Big Dream.