How-To 2
Create Your Side Hustle Workspace

Today, we’ll set up your workspace by installing Google Chrome and creating a Google account. Just like a carpenter needs a clean table to work, you need a clear digital space. This way, you can test your ideas without getting lost in clutter. There is no need to rush ahead. If you already know how to handle basic computer tasks, you do not need to start at the absolute beginning. Look at the summary of the 28 How-Tos and start where you feel comfortable.

Setting up a simple and reliable workspace is incredibly important. That is why I created a seperate PDF-guide: ‘How-To: Create a Digital Workspace to Build a Side Hustle’. In this How-To, you also find some video links on the process.

Organizing Your Side Hustle Workspace

You have years of real-world experience and knowledge. This “Unique Personal Toolbox” forms the vital 60% of this entire project. We must present this part in a digital format.

You must prepare your PC workbench. Many people begin a new project by dumping files on their computer desktop. They combine family photos with business documents. They use the default web browser that came with their device. That is a recipe for immediate frustration. We need a modern, clean, unrestrictive digital workbench on your PC. By setting up a dedicated space, you draw a hard line between your personal life and your new project.

Setting Up Chrome and a Dedicated Google Account

We will build a secure, professional system. Becoming the Builder lets you test your idea safely in real life. Just use a simple, free set of Google tools.

Fight Failing Memory

One mistake I made repeatedly was failing to organize a clean workspace. I always considered it a dull chore that took too much of my valuable time. I wanted to spend my time on creative and interesting things, and I was convinced I would remember my workflow.

Many times, it took a while, but the result was always the same: I ended up feeling lost in an unstructured collection of folders, files, notes, and software accounts.

As we grow older, relying on memory becomes less reliable. A well-organized workspace—one that feels familiar and comfortable, like home—becomes more valuable with every passing year. That’s what makes this How-To so important. It prepares you to deal with chaos before chaos takes over.

Installing Chrome and Creating a Side Hustle Google Account

The first chaos-avoiding step is installing Google Chrome. Chrome will act as your main workshop floor. The second step is creating a brand-new, dedicated Google Account. Why new? Because mixing your personal emails with your project emails is confusing. It leads to missed messages and scattered focus. When you sit down at this new Chrome profile, you are at work. When you close it, you are done for the day.

2-Step Verification

We will also establish security. We will turn on 2-Step Verification. Then, install the mobile Gmail app. This way, you’ll get security prompts straight to your phone. This ensures your digital property remains secure. Your AI Hired Hand will do the heavy lifting later. But first, you need to set the groundwork.

Becoming the Builder in Charge

These steps will help you go from feeling anxious to being confident as a Side Hustle Builder. You’ll take charge of your digital workspace.

Don’t worry about clicking the wrong button. Know where you can find your tools and how your browser works. Be sure that your account is safe. That is how you stop being a passive user and become a builder. You command the tools.

Overcome Windows S-Mode Restrictions

Many new Windows computers come with S-Mode turned on. This setting limits what software you can install. If you try to download a standard program, your computer will block you and report that you are in “S-Mode.” You must turn off this setting to install the tools you need to build your workspace.

Windows S-Mode restricts your computer. It allows downloads only from the Microsoft Store. This setting prevents you from installing third-party software. You don’t need to be a tech wizard. But you need to install essential tools.

Set up your physical computer workspace right from day one. If you don’t, you risk building your side hustle on a shaky foundation.

Practice Steps – Setting Up Your Dedicated Base

Follow these specific instructions to prepare your PC workbench. Take it one step at a time.

Bypassing Windows S-Mode

In case you are confronted with Windows S-Mode, take the next approach:

1. Click the Start button on your Windows taskbar.
2. Type the word Switch‘
3. Click on Switch out of S mode from the search results.
4. In the Microsoft Store window that opens, click the Get button.
   Warning: Once you switch out of S Mode, you cannot go back. This is a good thing; it gives you total control.

Installing Google Chrome Browser:

1. Open your default browser (such as Microsoft Edge).
2. Type google.com/chrome in the address bar.
3. Press Enter.
4. Click Download Chrome to download the ChromeSetup.exe installer.
5. Click the downloaded ChromeSetup.exe file to run it.
   (if you lose the file, hold the Control key and tap J to open your downloads list).
6. If prompted by your computer to make changes, click Yes.
7. Wait for it to install.
8. Close your old browser completely.

Creating a Dedicated Google Account:

1. Open your new Chrome browser
2. Type accounts.google.com + Enter
3. Click Create Account.
4. Choose For my personal use, NOT a business account.
5. Type your side hustle name in the first-name field (keep it between 6 and 30 characters).
6. Leave the last name field empty.
7. Enter your birthday and gender.
8. Pick a clear Gmail address from the options or create your own. You can change your email address with Google only 3 times in a year. So, choose wisely.
9. Make a note of the Gmail address.
10. Enter a strong password. It should be at least 8 characters long and include letters, numbers, and symbols. Enter it twice.
11. Make a note of the Password.
12. Point your mobile phone camera at the QR code on the screen.
13. Tap the link that appears. Finally, tap Continue or Approve.
14. Enter your existing personal email as the recovery address.
15. If asked: Click ‘Choose in 4 steps‘ for personalization settings.
    • Select Don’t save Web & App activity.
    • Select Don’t save YouTube History.
    • Select Show me personalized ads.
    • Check the box for Privacy reminders. Then, click Confirm.
    • Scroll down and click I agree.
16. Finally, add your Recovery Phone number.

Installing Mobile Gmail App

1. On an iPhone, get the Gmail app via the App Store.
   On Android, get the Gmail app via the Play Store.
2. Select Add another account and log in with your new side hustle details (Gmail Address + Password).
3. Warning: Tap Allow for notifications. This way, you’ll get security verification pop-ups on your phone.

Activating 2-Step Verification

1. Open Chrome on your PC
2. Click the Person Icon in the top right.
3. Select Sign in to Chrome and enter Gmail-address and Password.
4. Click your initial icon, then click Manage Google Account.
5. Go to Security on the left menu.
6. Scroll down to ‘How you sign in to Google‘.
7. Click 2-Step Verification.
8. Click Turn on 2-Step Verification, follow the prompts.
9. Click Done.

Warning: If your phone ever asks ‘Is this you?’ when you are NOT actively trying to log in, tap NO immediately.

Ready to Build Your Digital Foundation?

Now is the time to take action. Go through the checklist above and set up your workspace. Getting this right today means you will not have to fight with your computer tomorrow.

Want to Shape This Project? The How-Tos and my downloadable resources are still evolving. I am seeking feedback to improve them. Share your thoughts here, and I’ll give you a free copy of the finished minibook when it comes out in March 2027.

Happy Building!

DirkJan.

P.S.
This article was originally written by the author and edited for clarity using the following AI tools: Gemini, Grammarly and Hemingway.