Makerere University economist, Richard Ssempala, shares that competition for jobs exists for several reasons, and it’s a natural aspect of the labour market.
He advises that for anyone to survive in most economies, you need to have more than one job and this is why.

Financial Stability

Having multiple jobs can provide a more stable income. This is particularly important for those who have irregular or part-time work in one job and need additional income to cover living expenses.

Diversiflcation of Income:

Relying on a single source of income can be risky. If you lose that job or it experiences a downturn, you could face financial difficulties. Having multiple income streams reduces this risk.

Debt Reduction:

If someone is trying to pay off debt, having a second job can accelerate the debt repayment process. The extra income can be put toward paying down loans or credit card balances.

Entrepreneurship:

Some people have a regular job while also pursuing entrepreneurial ventures on the side. They may be building a business or working on a creative project that has the potential to generate additional income

Pursuing Passions and Interests

Some individuals have multiple jobs because they are passionate about more than one thing. They may have a full-time job that pays the bills and a part-time job related to their hobbies or interests

Career Advancement:

Some people take on a second job to gain experience or skills that can help them advance in their primary career. For example, a nurse might work part-time as a medical researcher to gain valuable research experience.

Supporting a Family:

In households with multiple dependents, it’s not uncommon for one or both adults to work more than one job to ensure there is enough income to support the family.

Job Flexibility:

Some people prefer a mix of part-time or freelance work because it offers more flexibility in their schedules. This can be important for those with care giving responsibilities or other commitments.

Exploring Career Options:

Sometimes, people take on multiple jobs to explore different career paths before committing to one. This can help them gain insight into what they enjoy and where they want to focus their efforts.

It’s important to note that while having multiple jobs can offer financial benefits, it can also be physically and mentally demanding. Balancing multiple jobs requires good time management, organization, and self-care to avoid burnout.

Additionally, tax implications and labor laws regarding multiple jobs can vary by location, so it’s essential to be aware of these factors when considering or pursuing multiple sources of income

But jobs have to be flexible

Flexible jobs are those that offer more control over your work hours, location, or scheduling. These types of jobs can be appealing for various reasons, such as accommodating personal responsibilities, achieving work-life balance, or pursuing other interests or part-time work.

It’s important to note that the level of flexibility in a job can vary widely depending on the employer, industry, and specific role.

When considering a flexible job, it’s essential to understand the terms and expectations to ensure that it aligns with your needs and preferences

Additionally, some flexible jobs may come with irregular income or require strong self-discipline and time management skills, so individuals should carefully evaluate if a flexible job is the right fit for them.