I’m on a few Uber driver facebook groups, and often times the majority of the posts are drivers hating on Uber. Now, I know I’m relatively new, only in my 3rd month, and that Uber had recently changed their pay structure and a lot of the more seasoned drivers really took a hit to their wallet. But that is a post for a different day. Today’s post is about why I am grateful that Uber exists.

I have a lot to be thankful for. I have a roof over my head, a loving family, a steady job, food in the house, an instant pot to cook it in, and coffee! But like many people out there, I sometimes have trouble making ends meet. A car breaks down, the kitchen sink starts leaking, the dishwasher starts leaking, and that was just last week! As a single mom, I have learned that youtube is my friend and I have become quite handy and can fix many household issues myself, but not always. Sometimes you just have to call a professional. When these things happen, money tends to get pretty tight. I used to stress, where am I going to get the extra money, what can I cut back on to pay the plumber?

Should I get a 2nd job? How will that work with the kids? I already work 8-5. If I get a 2nd job, how much time will I lose with my children because of how I’m scheduled? How many concerts and activities, and time with the kids in general, will I miss now? A 2nd job where I had little to no control of my schedule wasn’t going to work. And honestly, I was pissed that I even needed a 2nd job! I work hard Monday through Friday. I am paid a very fair wage, and I do like my job, but it just wasn’t enough for a family my size.

A friend of mine was driving Uber, and after asking her tons of questions, I decided to sign up to drive that weekend. At that point, I was still really pissed that I had to do Uber, or needed any type of 2nd income at all, to make ends meet. But then, the more I drove, I realized what a blessing it is to have something like Uber available to me to help me make ends meet! That realization completely changed my outlook on everything.

Uber has given me the opportunity to work when, how long or short, how often, or how little I want. I drive mainly when my children are at their father’s. I have begun paying down my credit cards, was able to do a few home repairs, and have extra money in my bank account to ease things up between paychecks. It’s all about perspective. So I am grateful for Uber. How long will I be able to do this? Who knows. Driverless cars and eventual Government regulation could possibly change everything, but for now, I am grateful.