Why Most Officers Stay Broke (Even with a Side Hustle)

"Why Most Officers Stay Broke (Even with a Side Hustle)"

Let’s be real—most cops who start a side hustle never see real money from it.

Sure, they make sales. Cash comes in. But cash outflows just as fast—gear, gas, tools, late-night Taco Bell after another side gig shift.

The result? They’re working harder than ever and still broke.

Here’s the truth: Revenue doesn’t set you free. Profit does.

🚨 My $0 “Success” Month

Back when I was running security audits part-time, I thought I was killing it. Brought in over $5K in one month.

But when I added up expenses—gas, printing, liability insurance, software—I realized I had made exactly $187 profit.

I laughed, then I got mad. I didn’t quit my overtime grind just to build a prettier hamster wheel.

That’s when I built my 3-Number Framework.

⚙ Tactical Application: The 3-Number Framework

You don’t need an MBA. You just need three numbers:

1. Revenue (What Comes In)

• Track every dollar your business collects.

• Don’t just guess—know it.

2. Expenses (What Goes Out)

• Write down fixed costs (insurance, software, gear).

• Track variable costs (mileage, ads, supplies).

• Stop letting receipts pile up—log them weekly.

3. Profit (What You Keep)

• Revenue – Expenses = Real Freedom Number.

• If this doesn’t cover your “walk-away” number, you don’t have a business—you have a hobby.

Run this every month. Adjust accordingly.

🧭 Big Picture: From Hustle to Business

Here’s the shift:

• Hustle mindset: “As long as money’s coming in, I’m good.”

• Business mindset: “If I’m not keeping enough, I’m not free.”

Most officers stay broke because they never look past the top line.

Real entrepreneurs? They play the bottom line game.

And that’s the difference between forever working OT or finally calling your own shots.

💬 Final Word

Stop bragging about revenue. Start tracking profit.

If your numbers don’t add up, neither will your freedom.

Your paycheck got you here. But your profit will get you out.

🔁 Repeatable Quote

Big Idea Recap: Most officers stay broke because they chase revenue, not profit. Track three numbers—revenue, expenses, profit—and aim for the bottom line.

Sticky Quote: "Revenue is vanity. Profit is freedom."

CTA: Reply with your take 🧠

Kevin St John
Business Strategist, Beatline Capital