• How to Balance a Full-Time Job with Rideshare Driving

    WRITTEN BY HOPSKIPDRIVE
    Woman with full-time job supplements her income by rideshare driving

    Rideshare driving has become a popular way for people to supplement their income, with many drivers working part-time gigs alongside their full-time jobs. HopSkipDrive is a great gig opportunity for people with full-time jobs due to the convenience of being able to set your driving schedule up to seven days in advance. Balancing rideshare driving with a full-time job can be challenging, but it’s possible with careful planning and effective time management.

    1. Set realistic goals

    The first step to balancing part-time rideshare driving with a full-time job is to set realistic goals for yourself. Consider the following questions:

    • How much extra money do you want to make?
    • How many hours are you willing to drive each week?
    • What are your long-term financial goals?
    • How does rideshare driving fit into your overall financial plan?

    Once you have a clear understanding of your goals, you can start to create a schedule that works for you.

    2. Create a schedule

    One of the biggest challenges of rideshare driving alongside working a full-time job is managing your time. To avoid burnout, it’s important to create a schedule that allows you to get enough rest and have adequate time for your personal life.

    Consider the following tips when creating your schedule:

    • Be realistic about how many hours you can work each week.
    • Schedule in some downtime for yourself.
    • Make sure your schedule allows you to meet your commitments to your full-time job and your rideshare driving gig.

    3. Communicate with your employer

    While it’s not always necessary to inform your employer about your side hustle, it’s wise to check your company’s policy on secondary employment. Being transparent can help avoid any potential conflicts of interest or scheduling issues. 

    • Let them know your availability.
    • Make sure they’re okay with you working a side gig.
    • Be professional and respectful in your communication.

    4. Be flexible

    Things don’t always go according to plan, so it’s important to be flexible when you are rideshare driving alongside your main job.

    • If you have a sudden change in your work schedule, be prepared to adjust your rideshare driving schedule accordingly.
    • Be willing to compromise and find solutions that work for both your full-time job and your rideshare driving gig.
    • Communicate quickly if you need to cancel a ride as a rideshare driver so you don’t leave a rider stranded without a ride.

    5. Don't be afraid to ask for help

    If you’re struggling to balance your full-time job with rideshare driving, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

    • Talk to your friends, family, or co-workers.
    • Participate in online communities that enable you to connect with other rideshare drivers and get support.
    • If you are a HopSkipDrive CareDriver, consider joining one of the CareDriver Facebook Lounges so you can connect with other CareDrivers in your community.

    Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many people have successfully balanced full-time jobs with rideshare driving. With careful planning and time management, you can, too. 

    Balancing rideshare driving with a full-time job is entirely feasible with the right approach. By setting clear goals, creating a flexible schedule, communicating with your employer, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, you can successfully manage both roles. Remember, the key to thriving in both areas is flexibility, organization, and self-awareness.