Building an online community can be daunting, but your analogy captures it well - every long journey starts with a small step! Keeping momentum going is definitely tricky but possible if you track your progress and celebrate the small wins along the way.
As for part-time, flexible work suggestions that enhance skills:
1. Virtual Assisting: If you're organized, detail-oriented, and have great communication skills, VA'ing for multiple clients can be a great way to earn an income and learn new digital skills.
2. Content Creation: Whether it's writing, podcasting, or videography, creating content on topics you're skilled/passionate about can build your portfolio, especially if you eventually want to monitize a personal brand.
3. Social Media Management: Great for extroverts who enjoy connecting with others and understanding target audiences. Managing social media accounts for multiple clients can help develop marketing and people skills.
4. Transcription & Translation: These roles can be done remotely and are often flexible, plus they improve listening/dictation skills and cultural awareness respectively.
5. Online Tutoring/Mentorship: If you're good at explaining concepts, you could mentor newbies in your field online; a great way to hone your communication and leadership skills.
6. Virtual Bookkeeping: Number-crunchers can offer remote bookkeeping services, helping businesses with their finances. It's a great way to learn about financial management.
Remember, these roles often lead to networking opportunities and new skills which can help in the long run!