I came across this interesting topic recently: How in the heck do you explain your earnings to others IRL if you are simultaneously choosing to keep your webcam work private? Many people are struggling financially these days, so people being interested in how you make a good living seems only natural, right?
This is the scenario and question I came across online:
So, I’ve been doing some sex work part-time. I’ve done normal escorting as well as some BDSM work, which is amazingly fun. I also have a normal daytime job, which pays very little. Soon, I’m going back to college with the money I’ve been making. The problem is that the degree is expensive even if now I can afford it. I still live with my parents and no one knows that I’m a sex worker. How am I going to explain being suddenly able to go back to college and have nice things? Just saying I got a raise won’t cut it since it’s a dead-end job. Has anyone ever been in this position? What are your excuses?
Some very clever strategies were offered:
- Quit your current day job and get another: “It’s not hard to find shitty jobs, but this time, tell the parentals that it’s a good job.”
- Tell people you make crafts and clothes and sell them online: Etsy, baby! Also, thrifting and/or garage sale bargain hunting and reselling found items on ebay or Craigslist.
- Say you are a tutor: Language and math tutoring, especially, command very high rates. Writing tutoring is also lucrative and very in-demand.
- Student loans: Student loan supplementation easily can be a back-to-school cover story. Loans are also so intimidation and/or aggravating that most people won’t ask for additional details.
- This is just standalone genius: “I made up a fake part-time job that explained my odd schedule and cash. I work as a ‘freelance caterer’ and get called to events as needed if they need extra people. I even mention some of my clients while reinforcing the catering idea. I talk about some of the lawyers and bankers that I meet at these catering gigs. No one has ever pestered further.”
- Bitcoin gains: I don’t understand this, but maybe that’s the point?
- Freelance writing work online: From copy writing to editing, most people don’t understand how competitive this market is (or how little it pays). Easy-peasy way to explain extra cash, though.
The idea of having to explain one’s income, especially to nosy parents, is a touch frustrating. Many people also offered the blunt advice, “Move out!” But everyone has variable circumstances, and there may be all sorts of reasons for staying at home.
My favorite advice here was the catering idea. I’ve worked as a freelance caterer (it’s a real thing). The money is legit, and the hours are bananas. It’s as seamless an excuse as you’re gonna get.
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Got something you want to share? Tips or rage-inducing incidents from which other models may benefit? Email erika@ynotcam.com. I’d love to hear from you!
