Q. There’s a summer picnic Labor Day weekend at my boss’s house. Already dreading it. Everyone is bringing their family. I don’t have anyone to bring. I don’t want to go — I’m so not a fan of my company. They just assume everyone is free on a holiday weekend. Can I just blow it off?

A. The answer is up to you. If you’re not into it, would it look worse if you go and look like you’d rather be anywhere else but there? Or would it look worse if you don’t go at all?

You can be the judge, but often people do the thing they don’t want to do and wish they didn’t have to play that game to get ahead. Keep in mind, if it’s during the day that’s one thing because it’s work time and you’re forced into it like a luncheon. If it’s a Saturday, however, especially on a holiday weekend when you can absolutely have other plans, that’s a different story. It’s your time and your decision to make as to how to make the most of it.

Q. I have four side hustles. They keep me busy. How many is too many? I’m afraid something will slide.

A. As long as you’re not reaching burnout and you can manage, especially if the core reason is financial, there’s no shame in that game. However, if you’re afraid that something will slide like your mental health, physical health, personal life, relationships, then it’s time to examine which job is the most lucrative.

Can you increase hours in one gig and condense so it’s perhaps two robust side hustles rather than four smaller ones? Definitely ask for a raise in all of them and see what happens.

Without knowing the type of side hustle such as waiting tables, catering events, remote digital marketing, etc., it may be hard to juggle if they’re all very different. And then you’re managing four invoices or payment systems, four bosses and more.

It sounds like you’re concerned something will slide and it may get to that point, so it’s good you’re being proactive. Also, keep in mind with the holidays around the corner, there will be opportunities for seasonal side hustles, too. Perhaps ramp down one or two knowing you can pivot into seasonal side hustles.

Q. I have been freelancing with the same company for five years. They love my work. We’re all remote and I’m part of the team working 30-hour weeks. They won’t hire me, says it has something to do with headcount. I need benefits. What should I do?

A. Decide what is more painful: staying in a role you enjoy, but without benefits that you need. Or looking for a new role that you can also enjoy, but with benefits you need. The answer seems clear: I’d start looking for a new job immediately. I have a hunch they won’t want to lose you and may even offer you a full-time job with benefits once you resign from your contract, but it shouldn’t take leaving for them to appreciate you. Do what’s best for you.

Tribune News Service