Group 1 - A significant portion of Americans are setting financial goals for the New Year, with 75% of those making resolutions focusing on increasing their income, driven by concerns over inflation and the labor market [1] - The average monthly earnings for Americans with side hustles decreased to $442.76 in 2025 from $688 in 2022, indicating a shift in side gig income trends [2] - The most common income range for side hustlers is between $51-$250, with 32.1% of respondents falling within this bracket, while about 10% earn over $1,000 per month, which skews the average higher [3] Group 2 - A Bankrate survey reported a higher average monthly income for side hustlers at $885 in 2025, slightly down from $891 in 2024 but up from $810 in 2023, suggesting variability in income across different surveys [4] - Earning between $500-$1,000 per month is considered close to or above average for side gigs, while lower earnings of $51-$250 are common among many side hustlers [5][6] - Individuals with aggressive financial goals, such as paying off debt or saving for a house, may need to aim for higher income ranges, acknowledging that averages can be skewed by top earners [7]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of setting creative financial resolutions for the new year to build a stronger financial future Group 1: Financial Resolutions - Improving sleep can enhance judgment and mental alertness, which are crucial for making smart financial decisions [3][4] - Gradually quitting a vice can lead to significant savings, with potential annual costs reaching hundreds or thousands of dollars [5][6] - Negotiating one expense every quarter can help individuals save money by securing better terms or rates on services like insurance and internet [7][8]