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Renowned Ghanaian poet and literary artist Nana Kofi Asaase has encouraged young professionals to consider turning their side hustles into full-time careers — but only with careful planning, a passion for their craft, and patience for organic growth.
Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Tuesday (3 June), Nana Asaase shared insights from his personal journey transitioning from corporate work to becoming a celebrated full-time performance poet.
He emphasised that while the transition was difficult, it was his conviction, creativity, and strategic time management that ultimately made the difference.
“It wasn’t easy to transition,” he said. “But I figured something out — you either start big with capital or start small and grow it. I chose the second path. You learn everything along the way, and that makes your business stronger.”
He shared that being a poet equipped him with diverse skills — editing, proofreading, voiceovers, event emceeing, translation services, content creation, and creative coaching — all of which he now leverages to earn a living.
“I believe in leveraging your core passion and using that to branch into multiple, interrelated gigs,” he said. “Even if you’re not in the arts, you can do this. I know bankers who run fashion lines and scientists writing books.”
However, he was quick to caution against conflict of interest when running side businesses while employed. “If you’re working within an organisation, don’t go behind their back to take their clients. Build your credibility. Let your hustle run discreetly until it’s strong enough to stand on its own.”
Nana Asaase stressed the need for structure, organisation, and time management — principles he applied when balancing poetry performances with running his Eastern Gate Market business.
“Know what you’re doing and when you’re doing it,” he said. “Prepare well, study the trends, and don’t jump into every opportunity just because it looks juicy.”
He concluded by urging young people to reimagine the traditional 8-to-5 as a discovery phase. “I think the 8-to-5 job is actually one of the best frustrations that helps you discover what you’re really called to do.”
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