How I Discovered 5 Real Ways to Make Money From Home (No Business Degree Required)

It's been about 20 years since I made the decision to make money from home and build an online business. At the time, many in my family, friends too, thought I had lost my mind.

They just never believed I could earn a steady income without a commute, office politics, or wearing anything but yoga pants. But, fortunately, otherwise I'd be in trouble, I got the last laugh.

Today? I work from home full-time, and while I don’t pretend to have it all figured out, I’ve tested a lot of work-from-home ideas. Some were great. Some were not.

What You Need to Know First

I love my make money from home lifestyle. I have freedom and a lot less stress. Honestly, I wouldn't change it for anything.

But, yeah you knew there had to be a but, that doesn't mean I didn't have a few issue when I first started on this journey.

Keep these in mind:

1. You won't have as much access to other people. For most of us work from home people, we find other ways to network. But, keep it in mind just to avoid culture shock.

2. You're on your own. You don't have a boss pushing you to finish your work by your deadline. We're all grownups and most of us are fine with this, but if you're a bit of a procrastinator, something to keep in mind.

3. And lastly, don't underestimate the amount of distractions you will get working form home. Again, this isn't an overcomeable (is that a word?) obstacle, but something to keep in mind!

Let's Get Started

So, here is the heart of the matter - the real world ways you can make money from home. Simple, proven models to start building a better lifestyle for yourself.

Here are 5 options that are actually working for real people right now—including me.

1. Chat-Based Remote Jobs

These are low-key, flexible, and don’t require phone calls (a huge win for introverts). Companies hire people to respond to customers via live chat or email—no degree or tech skills required.

• Flexible hours
• Weekly pay (on many platforms)
• Often no experience necessary

This was one of the first online jobs I tried—and it’s still one of the most beginner-friendly.

2. Freelance Services You Can Offer Today

No, you don’t need to be an expert.

Actually, you already are.

An expert isn't someone who knows everything about a subject, they are someone who knows more than most. You probably already have an in demand skill you can offer—like:

• Typing (data entry)
• Social media scheduling
• Light research
• Inbox management
• Blog formatting

Start by offering 1 clear service on a platform like Fiverr or through local Facebook groups. Word-of-mouth can grow surprisingly fast.

Be willing to low ball your pricing a little until you build up some reviews. Then, raise your rates so you're in line with your skill level.

3. Helping Others Learn (Without Teaching a Course)

You don't necessarily need a teaching degree to help others:

• Answer student questions inside other people’s courses
• Help someone practice English conversation
• Tutor younger students with homework

Platforms like Preply or Outschool let you help others learn—on your own time, from your laptop.

4. Sharing What You Know (Content That Pays)

If you like writing, journaling, or explaining things—start publishing.

Medium, Vocal, and NewsBreak are just a few places where everyday writers can earn money through views, tips, or partner programs.

You don’t need a blog. Just pick a topic you enjoy and write 1–2 times a week. It builds over time.

5. Affiliate Programs You Actually Believe In

If you’re always telling people about great products or services, affiliate marketing might be for you.

You recommend something. Someone buys through your link. You earn a small commission—at no extra cost to them.

Start with one product you love and share it through:

• Blog posts
• Pinterest
• Email
• A personal guide or checklist

Just make sure it’s something you’d recommend to a friend. That’s the key to keeping it authentic and actually earning over time.

What I Learned (The Hard Way)

Don’t fall for the “just post this link and get rich” schemes. Real income takes real effort—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Start small. Pick one idea. Stick with it for 30 days.

You don’t need a business plan or 100K followers. Just a willingness to try something new from your kitchen table (preferably in comfy clothes).

🟢 Want to Try One That’s Simple + Flexible? My Remote Income Starter Guide may be just what you need to find the right path. You can check it out here.

Final Word

You don’t need to reinvent your life overnight. But the world of work has changed—and it’s finally in your favor.

Whether you’re a mom, a retiree, or just someone looking for a better way to earn… there’s something here for you.

The trick is getting started. Good luck on your journey!