Good at Nagging? Here’s How to Turn That Trait into a Lucrative Side Gig

Are you lauded in your social circle as the one who always manages to get things done on time and according to schedule?

If so, you could make you some extra cash by helping other people quit dawdling and just get their stuff done already.

New Yorkers are paying three entrepreneurs $40 a pop to show up at a local coworking space to buckle down and work on pet projects they’ve been putting off.

The event is called a Cave Day, a “day of heads-down, facilitated, distraction-free productivity so you can treat yourself to prioritize YOU and getting your personal work done.”

How Cave Day Works

Basically, it’s a big room with tables, electrical outlets, internet access, snacks and “procrastination nannies” who will keep you on track and away from distractions.

They even take away your phone.

There are productivity coaches on hand in case you hit a wall and structured breaks to remind you to get up and walk around every now and then.

Fast Company’s David Zax attended a Cave Day in March to work on his screenplay.

“Over the course of the morning, punctuated by occasional stretching and doodling breaks led by [event organizer Molly] Sonsteng, I found myself steadily plugging away at it — and proceeded to make more progress than I had in months,” he says.

Sounds like the organizers are onto something.

The business idea sounds nutty, but the trio has done so well since their January launch that they’re already raising the price on future events to $45 per ticket.

I’m not surprised this business has taken off.

Almost everyone knows someone who’s struggling to finish a novel, write a collection of songs, draw their first graphic novel or complete some creative project they started ages ago.

All they need is someone to coach them to stay productive and grind it out.

Be that person.

Start a Side Gig as an Anti-Dawdle Cop

The group behind Cave Days has clearly invested a lot of time and energy into building its business.  

You can do something similar on a smaller scale to earn some extra scratch.

Start a side gig as an accountability partner to creative-types who are working on a book, manuscript, screenplay, or thesis.

You’ll need to spend some time getting to know your clients to understand what motivates them and what kinds of things would further undermine their progress.

For instance, I’d respond well to pre-arranged check-ins to see how things are going.

On the other hand, I’d run screaming from someone who sent me motivational quotes and inspirational messages.

Just try saying, “Let’s do this!” around me.

One of my good friends, however, loves her vision board and collects inspiring memes like they were gold bars.

Hey, whatever works.

Why This Is a Great Side Hustle

You don’t need a ton of cash to get this gig off the ground. All you need is knack for productivity and a sincere desire to help people succeed.

• You’ll typically keep in touch with your clients via phone, text and email, so a cell phone and small space to set up your home office are all you need.

• Rather than rent a coworking space, offer to meet at a coffee shop to help keep clients on track while they work (remember to tip your barista!).

• You don’t have to invest in expensive marketing to find new clients. Ask your friends and family to spread the word and contact local writers groups to let them know you’re available.

From fitness to money management, accountability partners are hot right now. In fact, your side gig might even become your full-time job.

Your turn: Do you need an accountability partner or would you make a great coach?

Lisa McGreevy is a staff writer at The Penny Hoarder. She admits having a half-done project she’d pay someone to motivate her to finish.