I’ve worked at more than one job for many years – in a variety of industries. Partly because I wanted to broaden and diversify my skill sets, and partly because, when I was single, I figured that I may as well be working and making money. Then when I got a boyfriend (whom I later married), we both worked two or more jobs with a focus on making and saving money.

Looking back, I believe I was in search of independence dough as well. Freedom money. The autonomy fund, also lovingly referred to as f*** you money. This extra money acts as a safeguard or protection plan for circumstances like layoffs at the job, an unexpected break-up (from a man, woman, or a job), or unhappy working circumstances like a horrible manager or unpleasant work environment, hence, the term “f*** you money” if you decide to hum, “Take this job and shove it.” Financial freedom – just some extra cash that steadily comes into the bank account and provides a little comfort, an opportunity for early retirement or a chance to just play. Typically people imagine complete financial freedom, where money is not an issue, but some are content with just having extra working cash here and there, to just make life more comfortable – either now or in the future.

I chose to try and obtain this extra money by working a second job. I worked hard at both places, but always knew I would be handling my work time MY way. If not, I could always leave and go to the other job I had on hand. Over the years, I’ve focused on trying to make my money work for me – the whole work smarter, not harder philosophy. Most people have a savings account or an IRA fund, but that doesn’t usually act as a source of income. It’s a “break glass in case of emergency” fund.

For me, a portion of my independence money comes from freelance writing – although in the last few years I’ve allowed my corporate job to take more of my focus than the things that interest or fuel my passion (I’m working on this shift as I type/you read). While there are query letters, deadlines, revisions, etc. in freelancing, it’s something I’ve always enjoyed and I happily manage my time. When I learned about investing (after working at a financial institution), I was able to try and have my hard-earned money get to work on its own.

Some people get their freedom money from investing in stocks, mutual funds, real estate, businesses, etc. Other people obtain extra cash by taking their hobbies and interests, and turning them into something profitable, like jewelry making, photography, horseback riding lessons, etc. Or even getting a second job that doesn’t drain their energy or interfere with their full-time job, perhaps substitute teaching, multi-level marketing sales, teaching online or an at-home business.

Do you have a source of income that can build your independence fund? What would be your dream way of obtaining your financial freedom? Does having a back-up cash plan make sense to you? What would you do if you didn’t have to work? Can you find a way to make it profitable?