Neo4j is a graph database that can be intimidating to potential users, with many people citing common misconceptions about its capabilities and suitability for their work. To overcome this, the concept of side projects can be used as an entry point, allowing individuals to explore Neo4j in a low-risk environment and gain experience with its features and applications. By building a project that aligns with their interests and passions, developers can learn new technologies, demonstrate expertise, and potentially enhance their careers. The text suggests various ideas for side projects involving graphs, such as analyzing movie preferences or creating a graph-driven blog, and provides examples of real-world projects like OmNomHub to inspire others. Ultimately, making time for a side project can be extremely rewarding and is encouraged by Neo4j's free trial and the GraphConnect San Francisco conference.