Breaking Down the Stereotypes—Why I Drive Rideshare

As a rideshare driver, I often find myself in conversations that reveal the underlying stereotypes about gig work and those of us who choose this path. Just the other day, while driving my Tesla, a passenger casually asked, “You rent this through the app, right?” Interestingly, this wasn’t the first time I’d received that question since purchasing my model Y. I responded, “Nope, I bought this brand new in 2023,” and the look of surprise on their face was unmistakable.

This got me thinking: why do people jump to that conclusion?

It’s a common scenario. When passengers discover that I have a stable corporate job and a nice car, they frequently ask, “Why do you drive rideshare?” This question often carries a subtle negative tone, as if they're suggesting, “You’re better than this.” It seems like many people think that driving rideshare means I have limited options or that I’m settling for something less. In reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth!

Let’s break down these stereotypes.

First off, I’m not driving rideshare in a Tesla because I have to—while the supplemental income is definitely a perk, it’s also about the unique experiences I share with my passengers. Still, many people are taken aback to hear that I truly enjoy driving for rideshare. But I tell them that it offers me the flexibility to make extra money on my terms while allowing me to meet a diverse array of individuals from all walks of life. Every ride feels like a new adventure, and I often engage in fascinating conversations along the way.

The assumption that I rent my vehicle highlights how society perceives gig work. There seems to be a stigma surrounding gig workers—especially rideshare drivers—that implies we are somehow less committed or skilled than those in traditional jobs, suggesting that driving for rideshare is reserved for the bottom of the workforce hierarchy. However, that couldn’t be more misguided. Many of us are professionals in our own right, choosing to drive rideshare for various reasons—whether it’s as a side hustle, a primary income source, or a lifestyle choice that best fits our individual needs.

Moreover, driving for rideshare can be a profitable endeavor when managed well. And with many Americans currently facing economic challenges, the gig economy is evolving and expanding at a breakneck pace. So many riders are going to encounter rideshare drivers that are highly educated and professionally skilled individuals who choose this line of work for its flexibility and the autonomy it provides.

We are not just drivers; we are entrepreneurs, innovators, and service providers who contribute significantly to the economy.

Driving rideshare has always been about empowerment for me. When I left my corporate job in 2021 to work full-time in the gig economy, it gave me the freedom to manage my own schedule and focus on what truly matters—whether that's spending time with family or pursuing my passions as a content creator. It’s a form of entrepreneurship that allows me to leverage my skills and resources to build a living on my own terms. And it’s been one of the many ways I embrace my independence and drive toward a fulfilling life!

So, the next time you hop into a rideshare vehicle and see a driver behind the wheel, remember that there’s often more to the story. We are not defined by stereotypes or assumptions. Instead, we are individuals making choices that best fit our lives. And the next time someone asks why I drive rideshare, I’ll proudly share my journey, and hopefully, inspire a shift in perspective.