To me, the local guides program is a poetic mix of tangible and intangible things that brings another sense of purpose to my life. From the simplicity of positive affirmation through popularity and “leveling up”, to potentially playing a role in the success of a local business, the local guides program is the kind of community
involvement I’ve yearned for in my bustling yet hard-to-connect-in city.
I can see my photos garnering likes and comments from people I’ve never met, and I know that even a simple view suggests I was able to lend a hand to someone new to the block or just craving adventure. When a photo or a review takes off and reaches countless more people, the visual representation of my influence in the communities I visit brings me a sense of connectivity.
Being a local guide has also given me a platform as a customer to provide the kind of thoughtful feedback that wouldn’t be so confidently articulated face to face. A space for my poised review leaving alter-ego to take the spotlight and revel in descriptive words and brutal honesty. Because of this, I’ve grown as a writer, a storyteller, a photographer, an explorer and I’ve stepped out of my comfort zone. I’ve even reflected on what matters most to me when I visit somewhere new (ambiance, discounts/deals, or specialty food/cocktails) and try to incorporate as many of these details in my reviews as well.
In a sense, the power of being a local guide can be wielded as a weapon or a gift. I have pushed myself to achieve the kind of honest tone in my reviews that will either compel or sometimes even dissuade future new costumers. I can use my influence to draw attention to my favorite small businesses to keep their doors open and their employees paid, or I can use constructive criticism to vent about a business that will undoubtedly be heard by the community as well.
My designation as a level 6 local guide makes me feel accountable to provide honest feedback about my community, confident in articulating my opinion, connected to my fellow local guides and my sphere of influence, and empowered by my influence.