Maybe not in one step. But starting a SaaS side project or starting to freelance (with enough reputation and client pipeline so it is reliable) also won't give

Maybe not in one step. But starting a SaaS side project or starting to freelance (with enough reputation and client pipeline so it is reliable) also won't give extra $2k from one month to another. Advancing the career as software developer still seems the most reliable and conservative way to get am extra $2k. Disclaimer: it is not my option though. I am building a side project to earn extra revenue, but because my goal is not only the extra money. I want to work for myself with something I enjoy building. With that comes more control over my life, more freedom, and joy from building something nice.