The Free Tools I Actually Use to Build My Side Hustle as a Busy Mom (Because I’m Not About That Subscription Life… Yet)
Hey friend,
Let me be real for a sec—I didn’t start this whole blogging, affiliate marketing, digital product thing with fancy tools or a big budget.
Nope.
I started with zero funds, a brain full of half-finished ideas, two little ones who need snacks every 7 minutes, and a dream of building something meaningful from home.
If you’re in the same boat—juggling a full-time job, family life, and a heart that whispers, “You’re meant for more”—then this post is for you.
Here are the free tools that I actually use every week to move my blog, ebooks, and content business forward—without stress or spending.
1. GravityWrite – My Free Virtual Brain
Some days I open my laptop and forget why I’m even here. That’s when GravityWrite saves me. This little AI buddy helps me write blog ideas, product blurbs, captions—basically all the stuff I want to say but don’t have the energy to write from scratch.
I use it to:
- Draft blog outlines and content ideas
- Write email intros or social media posts
- Pull together eBook blurbs and landing page copy
The free version gives me just enough juice to stay productive (and sane).
2. Canva – Because I’m Not a Designer, But I Play One on the Internet
Canva is where the magic happens. I use it to create everything from Pinterest pins and blog banners to digital freebies and eBook covers. And trust me, if I can do it—you definitely can.
I use it to:
- Design printables, checklists & guides
- Create beautiful graphics for my blog and social media
- Format my children’s book pages before uploading to KDP
The free version is powerful enough to create polished, professional visuals—even during a toddler meltdown.
3. ChatGPT – My Unpaid, Never-Tired Content Partner
ChatGPT is basically my second brain (a slightly nerdier one). Whether I’m writing a how-to blog post, brainstorming a new freebie idea, or outlining an eBook—I run everything by this digital sidekick.
I use it to:
- Get quick blog drafts when I’m overwhelmed
- Plan my weekly content calendar
- Write fun, clear explanations that connect with my readers
It’s like having a writing assistant who never complains and works 24/7… and doesn’t judge my typos.
4. WordPress.com – My “Level-Up” Blogging Platform (Still Free!)
Once I got serious about sharing my message, I moved to WordPress.com. It’s clean, professional, and gives my blog a real “I’m doing this!” vibe—even while I’m typing in pajamas.
I use it to:
- Publish blog posts that reflect my real journey
- Organize my content into topics like Personal Growth, Work-from-Home Ideas, and Creative Writing
- Build a space I can grow into, at my own pace
You don’t need a custom domain or paid plugins to get started—just a voice and the courage to use it.
5. Gmail & Google Drive – My Digital Brain (and Filing Cabinet)
Gmail is where I keep all my blog sign-ups, affiliate program emails, and content plans. Google Drive? That’s my magic drawer. I store everything there—eBook drafts, blog graphics, email templates—you name it.
I use it to:
- Save all my Canva designs and freebies
- Draft blog content and brainstorm outlines
- Stay organized without complicated tools
It’s free, reliable, and doesn’t judge my file names like “finalfinal_realdraft3.”
Final Thoughts (from one dream-chasing mom to another):
You don’t need expensive software or monthly subscriptions to start something meaningful. I began with just a laptop, a dream, and these free tools—and little by little, I’m building a business that fits my life, not the other way around.
So if you’ve been waiting for the “right” time, this is it. Start with what you have. Use what’s free. And build your own version of success—one blog post, one design, one small win at a time.
And hey… don’t forget the coffee.