Aha, the dance of life. In the words of Paula Abdul, one step forward, two steps back.
Or ten.
Going from averaging around $20 an hour driving for Lyft in the Bay Area after gas and car rental fees to about $3 in San Diego wasn’t exactly the change in work and money that I was expecting. Especially so soon following finally being able to catch my breath after a year of bad luck.
It ain’t easy but these lessons are definitely teaching me about being flexible, fluid and to think fast on my feet. Things that will no doubt help me on my journeys abroad. I definitely don’t see them as the “signs” some state-side friends point out as reasons to stop pursuing my dreams.
In that way it’s easier being overseas than at home. Not surprisingly, the community of people living the same lifestyle are supportive not only in helping each other but also in pointing out how normal the challenges are. Life always comes with hardships, no matter what path we choose. I tried selling out to live the life most considered “normal” but was miserable even without the problems. I’d rather keep going this way. At least I have a chance to be happy.
I still love driving for Lyft for many reasons and, based on the advice of another driver who I gave a ride to, am going to make the sacrifice to drive up to LAX and Orange County in the hopes that it will once again be lucrative. I am also applying to teach English in Japan after talking to another passenger about it who had taught there for a couple years. I may not get accepted, but I hope I do. I want to find out why so many people say they love it so much.
Though I’ve constantly heard about it, I never considered becoming an ESL teacher before now. My ego was getting in the way in regard to being stuck on the idea of being a writer and marketing professional full time. So was my fear of totally letting go of what I know in order to fully count on what is offered in foreign lands for survival. I just wasn’t ready. I’m not much of a kid person and I needed experience. No amount of research can provide a lot of the knowledge we need to live. Every step I have taken has taught me something new. Just like changing majors when in college, I am staying the main course but experiences are changing how I am doing it.
Here I am at the next step. I’m relieved that I have at least switched over to a place where I’m getting used to it and am now deep in enough for this to now be my lifestyle. I’m far enough in for no turning back. Or it’s at least not likely. I fought hard for this life and it has taken hold. Just like you reading my posts, we are both along for the ride. Let’s see where it takes us next.
Your feedback for Oct 14 – 20
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Passenger feedback
★★★★★ 44 ratings
“Awesome! Awesome! Robin is just fabulous! Enjoyed every minute and the convo!”
“Very friendly, open to chat and personable! Funny and upbeat!”
“Great convo and snacks!”
“So friendly and a great driver!”