Christian Alshon Inspiring Journey: During the unprecedented turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic, many found themselves grappling with uncertainty, seeking side hustles to supplement their incomes. Among them was Christian Alshon, who found a unique opportunity that would not only help him financially but also lay the groundwork for his future endeavors. As the world shut down, Christian Alshon navigated the challenges of a changing economy, discovering an unexpected path that would ultimately benefit him in the long run.
Embracing Change in Difficult Times
With tennis lessons canceled and summer stretching ahead, Alshon took a leap into the gig economy, a decision that would redefine his summer. “I was an Uber Eats driver because I needed a job. I was home for the summer. I normally would’ve taught tennis, but that was all canceled,” he explained, reflecting on the challenging landscape of 2020. With traditional avenues for income abruptly halted, Alshon had to adapt quickly. Inspired by a friend’s success, he decided to dive into food delivery, a decision that proved fruitful and opened his eyes to new possibilities.
“I decided to do Uber Eats because one of my friends was doing it and earning $11 to $17 an hour,” he recalled, noting that even in difficult times, the gig economy presented new opportunities for those willing to take a chance.
Mastering the Art of Delivery
Behind the wheel of his father’s Ford Explorer, Alshon quickly identified a method to maximize his earnings. “I found that I could earn almost $20 an hour because there’s a technique where you take shorter trips and you only accept the trips that are in the better neighborhoods,” he revealed. This savvy approach allowed him to combine efficiency with income, proving that sometimes, location is everything. It wasn’t just about picking up orders; it was about strategically navigating the city to maximize earning.
Over a span of three months, Alshon successfully delivered approximately 600 orders, boasting a remarkable 97% satisfaction rating. This impressive accomplishment not only showcased his commitment to quality service but also highlighted his ability to adapt in a rapidly changing environment. The gig was not just a job; it became a way to multitask, blending work with his studies. “I would do Uber Eats from 6 a.m. to noon, which was prime time for Uber Eats,” said Alshon. “By then, I already made $100 that day, which is solid for a college kid.”
Investing in the Future
Alshon’s earnings did not just fuel his social life; they were strategically invested. The money he earned served as a springboard for more ambitious goals. “I had learned how to budget and create an income statement. To this day, every dollar I make, I budget,” he confirmed, showing the financial lessons learned during this period. The financial skills he honed at the University of Chicago allowed him to invest in stocks, making informed decisions that reflected his academic background. The profits he made not only strengthened his savings but also funded his travels to pickleball tournaments, marking the beginning of his professional career.
This approach was not just a financial strategy; it signaled a maturity that many young athletes struggle to achieve. “I think the biggest reason why college and pro athletes struggle is because they don’t know how to budget and manage their money,” he said, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. For Alshon, understanding the financial landscape became as crucial as mastering his athletic skills.
A Call to Future Athletes
For those aspiring to make a mark in pickleball or any professional sport, Alshon’s advice is simple but crucial: take finances seriously. “It’s more costly than you think,” he warned, reminding future pros of the challenges that lie ahead. With travel expenses, equipment costs, and training fees, the financial burden can quickly add up, making budgeting an essential skill for success.
Reflecting on the lighter side of his experiences, Alshon mused, “Honestly, though, wouldn’t it be cool if Christian delivered the Chick-fil-A sandwich you just ordered on Uber Eats? I think it would be awesome.” His humor reflects an important balance; while he approached his side hustle with seriousness, he also managed to find joy in the process, reminding us that even in challenging times, a little lightheartedness can go a long way.
News in Brief: Christian Alshon Inspiring Journey
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Christian Alshon pivoted from teaching tennis to driving for Uber Eats, discovering a lucrative side hustle. By strategically accepting deliveries in affluent neighborhoods, he earned nearly $20 an hour and completed about 600 orders over three months, achieving a 97% satisfaction rating.
Alshon used his earnings to invest in stocks and fund travels to pickleball tournaments, highlighting the importance of budgeting for aspiring athletes. He encourages future pros to prioritize financial literacy to navigate the costs associated with pursuing sports careers successfully. His experience underscores the balance between hard work and finding joy in unexpected opportunities.
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