Why Your Side Hustle Needs an Origin Story
Every great side hustle has a history, much like a comic book superhero. To truly connect with people, you need to do more than just list the facts—you have to tell a story.
Take the story of David, a Canadian who found love in Amsterdam with Praj, from Kathmandu, Nepal. They decided to have a traditional wedding in Praj’s homeland, which was David’s first time visiting. He was immediately captivated by the country, its people, and especially its art and fashion. Nepal’s chilly Himalayan mountains are a primary source for the world's cashmere, and crafting luxurious sweaters and scarves is a deep-rooted part of the culture.
After their honeymoon, the couple planned to move to Canada, another place known for its cold winters. David had noticed that cashmere was significantly cheaper in Nepal than anywhere else. This sparked an idea. He knew cashmere was already popular back home, so he wouldn't have to educate customers on the product itself. Just like that, an idea for a was born.
From Idea to First Sale
Over the next few weeks, David and Praj dove headfirst into their new venture, meeting with dozens of local suppliers. They eventually found a partner who matched their dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Their first move was a $2,000 order for one hundred women's shawls, which they imported to Canada. They launched their brand, Corala Cashmere, just in time for the holiday season.
Their big break came from a feature in their city newspaper’s fashion section. That piece of helped them sell out all one hundred shawls, bringing in a $3,000 profit. They reinvested most of it right back into the business. But their mission was about more than money. From the beginning, they wanted to give back to the communities where their products were made. Praj knew that many mountain shepherds in Nepal couldn't afford to send their children to school, a problem that hits girls the hardest. So, they sent 5% of their profits to a local charity and placed another order, continuing to build their dream.
The Story Is Your Greatest Asset
Imagine if their story was told this way: While factually correct, that version is completely forgettable. It has no depth, nothing to inspire a potential customer.
Now, think about the details from the first version:
- A love story that crossed continents and led to a business idea.
- A mission to support local artisans and communities in Nepal.
- A direct impact on children’s education with every purchase.
That backstory is precisely why the newspaper wrote about them and why customers felt a connection. The narrative behind Corala Cashmere is a powerful origin story. No matter what you’re selling when you , you need one, too.
You Are the Hero of Your Story
The phrase “origin story” comes from the world of comic books, where creators build a history explaining how a character got their powers and became who they are. A good one often involves a turning point or a mission. Unless your product is completely generic, you'll find far more success by sharing the history of how your project came to be. Even if your own journey doesn't involve a honeymoon in Nepal, there’s a story there.
This is an area where gives you an incredible edge over large corporations. A billion-dollar insurance company might tell you a heartwarming story about its humble beginnings, but it often feels manufactured. As a side hustler, you don't have to work hard to be authentic—you already are. Your real story is more compelling than any narrative a multinational corporation can create.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself at the center of your narrative. You’re not building a faceless company; you’re building something for yourself. Personal details are what forge an emotional connection with your ideal customer. For instance, one successful web designer shares her professional portfolio on her site, but she also mentions her favorite Taylor Swift song and the weekend beer she enjoys. While some might see that as irrelevant, her ideal customers—people just like her—see a person they can relate to.
Finding Your Own Narrative
To build your own origin story, think about why you're pursuing this particular venture. What made this idea special to you? These prompts can help you get started:
Back in Canada, Corala Cashmere continues to grow organically, with most of its sales coming from search results and referrals. The lesson from their journey is clear: the more you can inspire people to root for you and your mission, the easier it becomes to turn them into paying customers. This is a vital part of . Dig deep to find your story, and don't hesitate to share it.
