Experiencing Lyft Driving: A Full-Time Adventure in Boston

I drive for Lyft full-time in Boston and have been doing so for the past six months. This job started as a temporary fix while I looked for other work or considered my next move. It turned out to be an amazing experience, offering flexibility, good pay, and the ability to connect with interesting people.

The Job Description

Unlike traditional jobs, working for Lyft doesn't come with a fixed schedule or a boss. The interview process is simple, making it an attractive option for many. The pay is also quite good, making it a lucrative way to earn a living. You don't have to bring the job home with you; you simply turn it on and off at your convenience.

A Typical Day

My typical day starts around 10 or 11 a.m. After a quick breakfast, I read, stretch, and go to the gym before making lunch and running any errands. I then work from 4 p.m. to midnight, taking a dinner break and eventually going to bed around 1 or 2 a.m. I adjust my schedule daily to fit my needs and preferences.

This dynamic nature of the job allows me to tailor my work hours to suit my lifestyle. I meet a variety of people, often engaging in interesting conversations with passengers. Sometimes, I don’t talk to passengers at all, but even that can be rewarding in its own way.

Other Job Experiences

Before becoming a Lyft driver, I was a teaching assistant for a school district. While this job paid better than the $19 per hour I previously earned, the job wasn’t something I looked forward to daily. Unlike teaching, driving for Lyft pays me for every ride, motivating me to make the most of each trip and ensure every passenger feels valued.

Proactive Tips and Accidents

Accidents are unfortunately a part of the job, but being proactive can make a big difference. I always keep medical-grade bags in my car, which I bought on Amazon. In six months, I've only had to use them five times, which is a testament to my diligence. In contrast, accidents can be costly and inconvenient for passengers, who often have to pay big fees. Providing bags to passengers has resulted in them tipping generously, often at least 10 percent, which is reassuring.

Similarities to Traditional Jobs

While driving for Lyft offers a lot of flexibility, it does have its downsides. Just like any job, it has its ups and downs. Meeting new people all the time can be incredibly fun and interesting but can also get repetitive. Additionally, the physical nature of the job can lead to soreness and aches and pains from sitting in the car all day. However, staying in shape helps mitigate these issues.

Overall, despite a few drawbacks, driving for Lyft is a great job. It’s definitely better than what people might think. You get to set your own schedule, take time off without permission, and the money is significantly better than minimum wage. In Boston, a full-time schedule of 35 hours a week can earn you about $900 per week. Of course, you can work more and earn even more.

The Verdict

For those looking for a flexible and rewarding job with the ability to earn a good living, driving for Lyft in Boston might just be the way to go. With its combination of flexibility, good pay, and the chance to meet new people, it’s definitely worth considering.