physical setup of overemployed

When I started working two jobs, I thought my one trusty laptop could handle it. I love to travel and dreamed of being a digital nomad, so carrying two machines seemed crazy.

I learned quickly that a regular setup is not built for the demands of two full-time jobs. It's not a short-term gig; it's a long-term strategy that needs a proper, long-term setup. It’s all about comfort, efficiency, and most importantly, security.

Why your setup matters

• Speed: You need to switch between jobs instantly. When someone from your other job calls, you have to be ready in a second.

• Security: This is the big one. Working on two jobs from one computer is the easiest way to get caught. Especially if your company uses a VPN to track traffic.

• Parallel meetings: They will happen. Your setup needs to handle you being in two meetings at the same time without getting busted.

The options

You basically have three choices.

1. One big PC: I don't recommend this. How do you log into two different Microsoft Teams accounts at once? The risk of sharing the wrong screen is huge.

2. Two hybrid laptops: This is when you use both laptops for both jobs. I did this at first because I had to go to the office and wanted to travel light. But it’s still very risky.

3. Two separate laptops: This is the safest way. One laptop per job. No shared work, no shared credentials. This is the one i recommend.

My exact setup

My setup was built for being overemployed long-term.

• Computers: I used one dedicated PC and one budget Chinese laptop. It was noisy when compiling, but it did the job.

  Sound for parallel meetings: This is my trick. I wear one big pair of headphones that covers my ears, and inside them, I hide a small pair of earplugs. This lets me listen to two meetings at the same time.

• Monitor: One big 32-inch screen is a game-changer.

• KVM Switch: This little box is a must-have. It lets you switch your mouse and keyboard between laptops with a single button press. I got the cheapest one from Ugreen and it works fine.

• Desk: I have a 160x80cm standing desk. I actually built it myself years ago when I didn't have much money. I just ordered the standing mechanism from AliExpress and put a desktop on it.

Treating your setup like a long-term investment is key. It needs to be fast, comfortable, and secure for the long run.

I break down every single piece of gear and the "why" behind it in my full video. Go watch it before you accidentally show your Job 1 boss your calendar from Job 2. Trust me, you don't want that kind of stress.