The Surprising Side Hustle: Earning from 'Body Doubling'
I never considered myself particularly patient until an unexpected conversation with my hairdresser. She confessed to having a basket of unfolded laundry sitting untouched for half a year. I offered a solution: to act as her 'body double.' This technique involves performing a task in the company of another person to enhance focus and motivation. For many, especially those with conditions like ADHD, the mere presence of another can be a powerful catalyst for completing long-deferred tasks.
Despite my own tendencies towards procrastination, I thrive on organization and structure. I've personally found 'body doubling'—whether with a friend at a coffee shop or virtually via Zoom—to be an effective method for meeting my deadlines with minimal stress. This personal experience led me to believe that this approach could equally benefit my hairdresser in tackling her overwhelming to-do list.
We forged an agreement: I would sit with her as she confronted tasks she had been postponing, such as folding laundry, sorting mail, and managing administrative duties. In return, I received discounted haircuts and complimentary professional hair coloring services, treatments I wouldn't typically indulge in. Beyond these exchanges, I’ve provided support in more complex areas, including assisting with grant applications, organizing her email, and drafting composed responses to sensitive messages. Our arrangement, unconventional as it may seem, has flourished since February 2022, offering mutual advantages beyond just task completion.
This journey has unexpectedly revealed my innate patience and ability to provide a steadying presence for others. My hairdresser's description of me as a 'calm and steady presence' was deeply affirming, particularly given my personal struggles with anxiety. It has reshaped my self-perception, empowering me to see myself as a supportive guide rather than someone who would simply take over tasks. The profound trust placed in me by allowing me into the more disordered aspects of her life has been an honor. I've realized that often, the most valuable contribution is simply making someone feel less isolated as they begin a daunting task. The sense of accomplishment derived from these interactions is incredibly fulfilling. I am now exploring the possibility of expanding 'body doubling' into a more formalized service, offering my unique blend of support to a broader clientele as a meaningful side endeavor. In the interim, I continue to cherish the exceptional hair care and renewed sense of self that this partnership has brought into my life.