The Benefits of the Gig

Time Alone

Interacting with passengers can sometimes be draining, so receiving a delivery request featuring just a drink was often a welcome relief. During the week of the Sonoma fires, when air quality was poor, Uber Eats orders surged. I found comfort in driving around, delivering meals instead of passengers.

This job allowed me to enjoy solitary moments in my car, where I could listen to podcasts, record voice memos, and connect with friends—all while the tempting scent of a customer's chicken tikka masala wafted through my vehicle.

The quiet time was especially valuable as I prepared for my medical Spanish exam, allowing me to multitask by listening to vocabulary podcasts while being surrounded by the aroma of garlic fries.

At times, I would receive several Uber Eats requests in quick succession, providing extended periods of solitude and ample opportunities to immerse myself in Spanish-language content.

Flexibility for Creativity

Ideas often strike me while I'm engaged in other activities, like driving or exercising. When inspiration hit me while on the road, I could easily pull over to jot down my thoughts in the Notes app or record voice memos—something I couldn't do when transporting passengers, but felt comfortable doing with food deliveries.

Convenient Breaks

Unlike Lyft driving, where basic needs like bathroom breaks can be challenging to manage, Uber Eats allowed me the flexibility to take breaks without the worry of losing time or income. Many restaurants were accommodating, offering to refill my water bottle or let me use their restrooms.

A Culinary Experience on the Go

My car transformed into a mobile food court, filled with delightful aromas from the meals I transported.

The Challenges of Delivery Work

Increased Responsibility

As I navigated the roads with bags of food on the passenger seat, I often worried about delivering everything in pristine condition. To minimize spills and ensure everything arrived neatly, I invested in a large plastic container for transporting meals.

Income Challenges

While drivers typically don’t earn significant sums, accepting requests without discretion can quickly lead to losses. Early on, I found that requests often came from distant restaurants, meaning I would spend considerable unpaid time driving to pick up orders.

Navigational Hurdles

Locating some restaurants proved difficult, especially when they lacked clear signage. I once teamed up with another Uber Eats driver in search of a fried chicken joint, and we spent 25 minutes wandering up and down the street before finally locating it tucked away in an unmarked spot.

Difficult Customers and Parking Issues

Once, a customer requested that I deliver her food to the 14th floor of a building with a malfunctioning elevator, all while dealing with limited parking options. Customers often expect top-notch service, and failing to meet their expectations can negatively impact your rating.

Thank you for reading! If you're interested in learning more about my experiences as a rideshare driver, feel free to check out these articles:

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