Ridesharing services have recently become a popular alternative to public transportation. As such, I have encountered a wide variety of drivers through ride sharing services that gave me quite an insight into human nature. These are just some of the many kinds of drivers one is likely to encounter through ridesharing services.

THE DRIVERS WHO ARE EAGER TO CONVERSE

Such drivers are usually cheerful and friendly. They greet you with a wide smile you and go on to ask you simple things like where you originally come from and what your favourite food is. They often start talking about their own lives — reflecting on their childhood, talking about the struggles they have overcome so far and chattering on about the many kinds of passengers they encounter. I find such people really pleasant as their friendliness sets them apart from others.

THE SHORT-TEMPERED DRIVERS

These drivers tend to lose their temper at the slightest provocation. They are not necessarily unfriendly or gruff, but their temper creates an intimidating aura around them. They may grumble about drivers not abiding by traffic laws. They could go on about the condition of the roads for hours. You will often find yourself agreeing with them, and inspired by the way they constructively criticise everything, you might find yourself telling them how terrible the coffee you tried at a certain cafe was. Rides with such drivers often involve heated conversations with both of you talking about wrongs that should be righted and things about the society that need to be changed.

THE GOOD LISTENERS

Venting helps a lot when we are angry or in pain. Some drivers listen to everything you have to say, without judging you, without commenting, sometimes nodding in understanding. You reach your destination and realise you feel light and relieved. Although you will probably never see them again, you feel grateful to them because they were there for you when you needed someone to confide in.

THE DRIVERS WHO CONFIDE IN YOU

So now the tables are turned and you need to be a good listener. Some drivers might be sad about something and, although you are a stranger to them, they decide to confide in you. If you listen to everything they have to say without showing the slightest bit of annoyance, this will perhaps cheer them up and help them get rid of the sadness that invaded their minds to a certain extent.

DRIVERS IN TERMS OF PROFESSIONALISM

You might try initiating conversations with some drivers but their replies are likely to be restricted to a few words. They tend to take professionalism a bit too seriously.

There are also some drivers on the opposite end of the spectrum. Some of them might drive riskily and you might start fearing for your safety. Some drivers might keep talking even if you are in not the mood to converse, causing you to get annoyed.

Using ridesharing services is a simple way of understanding how unique each person is. Each of us has distinctive habits and quirks and this is what makes the world such an interesting place to live in.

When he is not dealing with mood swings, Shounak Reza devours books and tea and longs for eras he has never lived in. You can contact him at www.facebook.com/shounakreza