Well, my journey on Google Maps commenced when I started responding to the prompts from Google Maps to review, rate and add photos of my visits to restaurants, parks, malls, places of tourist interest etc. And before I knew it, my reviews and photos in particular started receiving an encouraging number of views. So, I said to myself, “Here is a simple opportunity to help people find basic information on Google Maps and maybe even discover new places that they may not otherwise consider” . . . Hence, what started off as a simple hobby and even a “must do” of sorts post travel, or drive, or restaurant visit turned it a most delightful addiction as I realized the enormous difference that Google Maps was making to the community at large and that I could perhaps be a “bridge” of sorts by simply providing honest reviews and ratings! And I started moving up levels, thanks mainly to Google Maps constantly “reminding” me to rate / review / add photos
It has surely given me a deep sense of satisfaction for instance when my review of a church or a park or a restaurant has many views or the likes I receive in response to a question that I may have answered. To be honest, it has not been an overtly conscious effort and at age 50 (just turned!) I still consider myself somewhat of a novice on Google Maps notwithstanding that I am now a Level 6 Local Guide! So, for me, this journey has mostly been about helping people find places, providing objective feedback and trying to be as prompt as possible to review / rate / add photos.