The Local Guide program has tremendously transformed several facets of my life and the greatest impact has been on my social life.
Born an introvert, I often spend most of my leisure hours indoors all by myself; such a boring life, I suppose. From the shy and reserved guy that I was, I now take great delight in social activities, pleasurable expeditions and frequently visits family and friends both far and near: knowing that as a local guide, I don’t only benefit from such activities but also have the opportunity to share these experiences with the world via Google maps. This change in my personality trait has as well been noticed by my close and High School friends who then took me for a rude and non-sociable colleague. They now invite me to several programs; from academia to entertainment which they ordinarily wouldn’t have invited me. As a result, I have not only build confidence in myself but has also won myself some organizational and cooperate roles among my peer groups and in the various places I have worked, elevating my self-esteem. I now live a happier and adventurous life.
Additionally, this amazing change has made me so passionate about the Local Guide program judging from the ease with which Google maps offers me direction to places I have never been or wants to be at any point in time. Navigating just got better, isn’t it? If I were a sailor, I sure might use Google maps for a compass. I use it almost always.
I recall one of my initial experiences when I started to use the Google maps for directions. I needed to attend an educational fair at the British Council here in Accra. I had not been there before but through the use of Google maps, I confidently arrived at the venue and on time and the feeling was just indescribable. I had since been hoping to do more with this great app. The Local Guide program has just been the perfect answer to this quest of mine.
Also**,** I have developed a great deal of interpersonal relationship because I now often engage in conversation with people at the places I visit so I can get something relevant to write as a review. Sometimes, I do get impressed and have no option than to put some of these small local setups on Google maps or write a review as a way of saying ‘thank you’ for their services. The passion of writing reviews recently rekindled when I got an update that some recent photos I uploaded have over 40,000 views over a short period of time. The joy that suddenly swept through my heart was simply unexplainable knowing that I have been able through my review, provided useful information to such a great number of people. I really feel proud being a Local Guide.
Impacting knowledge has been one of my hallmarks and so I gladly share my discovery of new locations and routes with friends and my colleagues at work. Often, they are amazed how I seem to know almost any location within the capital. Usually, it is in such situations that I take the advantage and preach the gospel of the Google maps and what being a Local Guide is all about. Now, a few people rely on me for directions before travelling and when they need directions to some unpopular locations within Accra and other parts of the country.
So for me, the local guide program means this to me: killing two birds with one stone;
A change in personality and helping people remotely.
A life has been changed, yeah!
Thanks to the Local Guide program.