The recent shutdown was miserable for everyone in Washington, regardless of your affiliation with the U.S. government. Business was at a standstill in January, as many held their breath, wondering what would happen next. 

Even though I don’t have federal clients, I felt the pinch. New projects were on hold. Sub shifts at the gym were scarce. I heard sad stories from strapped federal employees everywhere I went.

We can only hope a shutdown doesn’t happen again. However, you can prepare for the next disruption:

Maintain an Emergency Fund

Life happens: cars need repairs, and kitchen appliances don’t last forever. Make some sacrifices to funnel money into a savings account that you can easily access. Save at least three months of living expenses. (It’s even better if you can save up to a year of expenditures.) If you don’t know what your monthly outlay is, begin tracking your expenses to create a budget. You can use online tools to help such as Mint and Personal Capital.

Pay Off Credit Cards Every Month

Cash is no longer king. We are using credit cards more often for our transactions. However, you must pay off your cards every month. The current average interest rate on credit cards is 12.77%. Live well below your means. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.

Start a Side Hustle

Rebel Road Creative is an umbrella corporation for my side hustles. I had a traditional full-time corporate job for a long time, but I always made extra money outside of my day job. When I was younger, I babysat and catered. Eventually I became a fitness instructor and secured AEC-related side gigs. When my last full-time job ended, I pivoted into my side hustles. It’s prudent to have a back plan (or two).

Diversify Your Income Stream

As we witnessed with the shutdown, people were in trouble because they depend on one pay check.  Diversifying your income stream can be challenging, but everyone needs to find alternate revenue sources. Do the research and figure out what is best for you.

Maintain Your Network

As an introvert, I appreciate how difficult it can be to network. But your professional relationships are key to your growth and survival. Find people you like, and keep in touch. Your network is intangible and valuable.

They say you should prepare for the worst, and hope for the best. You never know what’s around the bend.

Clients in the A/E/C (architecture/engineering/construction) and tech industries turn to Rebel Road Creative for marketing ideas, training and content creation. Looking for a spark to light up your business? Get in touch.