Dan Weiss, a 79-year-old retiree from Minnesota, has found a unique way to keep both his finances and social life active. After realizing the challenges of an unstructured retirement, Weiss turned to Taskrabbit in 2021 and has since completed nearly 1,200 furniture assembly tasks, earning up to $47 an hour.
Retirement proved to be a significant adjustment for Dan Weiss, who had previously managed multiple residential mortgage branches. The sudden shift from a busy career to the calm of retirement left him seeking both financial support and a structured daily routine. For Weiss, gardening and reading were not enough to fill the void left by his professional life.
Taskrabbit became the solution Weiss was looking for. Inspired by a newspaper article about the platform, he promptly registered and began taking on assembly tasks in and around Minneapolis. With a Bachelor’s degree in business administration and two master’s degrees, Weiss’s disciplined approach to this new venture quickly paid off. He reported making over $47,000 in 2023, the most he’s earned in a year from this side hustle.
Weiss typically completes one to three tasks almost every day, dispersing them over four to five days a week. Most tasks are within a half-hour drive, allowing him to manage his time efficiently while claiming expenses for mileage and gas. The social aspect of meeting varied clients adds a layer of enjoyment, as he finds their stories fascinating and enriching.
The fulfillment that comes with tasking is not without its challenges. Weiss has learned the significance of high-quality reviews in securing more work, a concept unfamiliar to him during his early career days. He emphasizes the importance of communication, punctuality, and a friendly demeanor to ensure client satisfaction and garner favorable reviews. These strategies not only enhance his reputation but also often result in tips, which occur in about 25% to 40% of his jobs.
Despite the physical demands of the task, Weiss is determined to continue tasking as long as the pay remains fair and his health allows. The extra income has helped fund vacations, including trips to his beloved Maui. Planning future travels with his wife remains one of his priorities, motivated by the desire to explore while still healthy and active.
Dan Weiss’s journey with Taskrabbit highlights a pragmatic approach to retirement challenges. By integrating work and social interaction, he maintains both economic stability and personal fulfillment. His story illustrates how finding the right balance can lead to a rewarding retirement experience.
Source: Businessinsider
