The Mini-Market Test: Is There Demand for This Idea?

Because even the best idea needs someone who actually wants it.

August 19, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

Want to see what's possible? This is where your side hustle adventure begins.

Hey there fellow side hustler!

You’ve got a spark of an idea—maybe two, maybe ten. Exciting, right?

But here’s the catch: not every idea will find an audience. And that’s okay. The point of starting small is to test—not to guess.

Enter the Mini-Market Test: a quick, low-stress way to see if there’s interest in your idea before you pour too much time or energy into it.

🧭 Step 1: Search Where People Already Hang Out

Markets leave clues. Your job is to spot them.

  • Google Trends: See if people are searching for your topic.

  • Etsy Search Bar: Type in your idea and note if results (and buyers’ reviews) pop up.

  • TikTok/Instagram Search: Are people creating or engaging with content around your idea?

  • Reddit or Facebook Groups: Communities often reveal what people are struggling with (and paying for).

🧭 Step 2: Listen More Than You Talk

You’re not selling yet—you’re scouting. Pay attention to:

  • Questions people keep asking

  • Complaints that come up again and again

  • Products/services that get a lot of buzz

This is your “demand signal.”

💡 Real-World Example

Let’s say you’re thinking about selling digital planners.

  • Etsy search: Thousands of listings, but also lots of customer reviews (proof people buy them).

  • TikTok: Creators showing “how I use my digital planner” with strong engagement.

  • Reddit: Users in productivity forums asking for recommendations.

✅ That’s demand! Now the question becomes: how can you add your own spin?

💬 A Mindset Reframe

Don’t be discouraged if your idea isn’t a smash hit everywhere. Even small pockets of interest are enough for a beginner side hustle.

You’re not trying to dominate a market—you’re just looking for your entry point.

✅ Your Tiny Action Step

Pick one idea you’ve been considering.

Spend 10 minutes searching for it in one of these places: Google Trends, Etsy, TikTok, or Reddit.

Write down one thing you notice about how people are already engaging with it.

That’s your first market clue. Follow it.

Exploring demand isn’t about pressure—it’s about curiosity. Every search, every clue you uncover gives you a clearer picture of where your hustle could thrive. Think of it as detective work for your future business: light, playful, and full of possibility.

Your first clue is waiting. Go find it.

See what’s possible!

Side Hustle Quest
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