You basically generate income whenever you are paid for something you have done. (create) You can also generate income thru investments that pay interest ordividends on the investment principle. (propagate) This is letting your money work for you, instead of you working for your money! Income is all money you receive from all sources including compensation for services or gifts. You generate income every time you put your hand out and someone buts money in it! Or put a dollar in a slot machine and get back two dollars!