I didn’t start blogging to make money or have a retirement stream of income. Not that I think it’s a bad idea; just never occurred to me. So I was surprised to see AARP suggest blogging as a “great part-time job” for retirees.
I agree with them, but was trying to keep this gig my little secret! There are several reasons that blogging is a great part-time job for retirees (and the rest of us).
Hours
You can put as many (or few) hours into your blog as you want. I do think the more you put in, the more you get back but that’s a decision we all have to make in balancing our lives.
The article notes that many bloggers are full time plus but that’s not a requirement. Once retired, I could easily double my hours and still have plenty of golf time. I don’t golf now, but really want to learn.
Mobile
Whether you’re retired or not, one of the best things about a blog is that it can managed and updated from anywhere. I’ve posted from foreign countries and many states during travels. The only thing needed is an internet connection and a computer. I travel with a netbook and find internet connections at hotels, coffee shops and airports.
Intellectually Challenging
The article is a little discouraging because it implies bloggers need to know about search engine keywords and how to post photos and videos. This can all be learned and that’s one of the biggest benefits of blogging.
It keeps the mind stimulated with new information and challenges. It’s a continual process as new technology and features are introduced.
Networking
Some people lose their social infrastructure when they retire. Blogging can open a whole new world of connections. There are so many people I have never met in person, but consider friends. I would not hesitate to have them over for dinner or as a house guest if they’re ever in the area.
These are a few reasons I agree that blogging is a great part time job. For everyone though, not just retirees. Do you agree it’s a good part time job? Why?
Photo courtesy of: kodomut
{ 11 comments }
I think it’s a great HOBBY, but like you I’m surprised to see it promoted as a part-time job.
If people expect to make income from it they may be disappointed. It’s not impossible to earn income that way, but it’s not a sure thing, either.
Donna, I agree with you. It can take many, many hours of work to get any kind of payment as a blogger, and a large majority of bloggers aren’t making money. It’s a great hobby, but certainly not a sure source of income for most people.
That’s pretty great the AARP has highlighted blogging! Hope blogging becomes even more mainstream! Good for us all who’ve already started.
Best, Sam
I think this is a wonderful part-time gig in retirement for exactly the reasons you mention. I still work full-time and don’t plan on retiring for at least 15 years during which time I would like to get a few different blogs up and running. I would hope during that time, a slow increase in earnings would start to add up.
I could easily spend a few hours in the morning blogging and interacting on line and playing golf every afternoon. Maintaining mental stimulation and exercising my body would be a great way to spend retirement. The income may or may not be worthwhile, but if it paid for my golf that would be cool to say the least.
Also, the prospect of being able to travel and still interact or earn is also a big bonus.
I think blogging is great for everyone, including seniors, to share their life experience in a (hopefully) meaningful fashion with the other generations.
I would love for it to generate an income stream as well!!!
I agree with Donna that it’s a great hobby – but blogging can be very unreliable regarding income. The key is finding a way to get consistent income from blogging, which can be very difficult to do.
Hi Kay,
I definitely belive that blogging can be a great source of income for someone who is retired. But then again, why would they need to blog if they are retired? I don’t know? As you and I both know, no one can just decide to be a blogger without having passionate for the subject for which they are writing. And if there is no passion, not income will follow.
Romeo
I think blogging will become more and popular in the senior community as people age. Some older people never became familiar with computers, but in time, everyone will have had exposure and will feel more comfortable with starting a blog.
I wish more seniors did blog and share the wisdom the have gained over their lifetime.
I started blogging for various reasons. Way back when because I was a techie and wanted to play with the technology, That fizzled out though (once it was up and running, I always had better things to do). Now I blog for the following reasons:
1.) to improve my communications skills and keep my mind engaged
2.) as a hobby where I help people learn my approach and actions to become financial independent (someday).
3.) as side income (although, in my case it’s not a lot).
I think for a lot of seniors, they aren’t as tech savvy as the younger generations (even Buffett doesn’t use a computer). But I think it could benefit the elderly the most (minus the phishing and maleware).
I think that blogging is a good part time job if you can make money from it. Most blogs don’t generate enough money to make it worthwhile though.
I think if you like to do it (aka it being a fun hobby) and if there is extra money on the side, then its worthwhile.
I think a lot of ppl go into blogging thinking it’ll be a cash cow unfortunately!
@Donna, if monetization is the goal, than the retiree should select the topic carefully and think about side products.
@ Yakezie, I am glad to have a head start on this part time career.
@ Optionsdude, I agree with your plan. I hope to have several blogs generating income that together can give me a nice supplemental income.
@ The Saved Quarter, many blogs not generating income may not really be trying other than slapping up some adsense, but it’s not as easy as some think.
@ Marie, I’m not a senior (yet) but I agree there’s something to learn from all generations.
@ Dana, I would imagine it takes 3-4 years of blogging to get consistent income. So maybe, retirees should start blogging before giving up the day job.
@ Romeo, good point about the passion which was noted in the article.
@ Everyday Tips, it might just start with my generation of whom many have worked with computers since the days of 8088s (I’m raising my hand here).
@ Money Reasons, I’m really surprised to hear that Buffett doesn’t use a computer. As you point out, there are a lot of benefits from blogging besides money that would be great for retirees.
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