Corkboard notes · side work that fits the board
Four cards on the board. Anything else waits for a free space.
Tack Book is a small reference for people adding a second, smaller income to a full-time job. We don't sell courses, tools or coaching. A corkboard only holds a few cards; to pin something new, something else has to come down. We look at keeping side work to what fits on a small weekly board, so it doesn't turn into a list that never ends.
The board
Small on purpose.
A long to-do list grows without anyone noticing. A board with four spaces makes the limit visible: when it's full, it's full.
Each card gets a day, so you know when it happens before the week starts. When a new job arrives, the question is simple: is there a free space this week, or does it wait for next week?
Card sizes
How much board space different side work takes.
Some jobs fit on one card; some quietly take three. We leave pay out on purpose: rates vary too much by country and platform to print honestly.
| Work | Spaces | Hidden extra card | Keep it small by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple online tasks | 1 | None, usually | A fixed session length |
| Selling used items | 1–2 | Buyer questions | Fewer, better listings |
| Proofreading | 2 | Revisions | One agreed round |
| Small design jobs | 2–3 | Feedback calls | Written feedback only |
| Any paid work | +1 | Invoices and records | One weekly admin card |
Loose pins
What knocks cards off the board.
- FEES
The rate isn't what arrives.
Platforms and payment services keep a share. Read the fee page before you start.
- TAX
Small amounts still count.
Side income is usually taxable. Keep a plain record from the first payment and check your tax authority's rules.
- FATIGUE
Late nights add up.
Side work that eats into sleep comes back as mistakes at the day job. Protect your rest first.
- CONTRACT
Your employer may have a say.
Some employment contracts limit outside or competing work. Read yours and ask HR about anything unclear.
- FRAUD
Offers that cost you to start.
Anyone asking for a fee, a kit purchase or help moving money isn't offering work. Walk away and report it.
The desk
Write to us.
Corrections, questions and suggestions go to [email protected]. A person reads every message and replies within a few working days.
Tack Book is educational. It isn't financial, tax or legal advice and doesn't promise any result. Read the disclaimer.