Having a full-time job may seem exhausting for most people, but there are those who juggle more than one to not only make ends meet but also discover more of themselves in the process.
Meet Deeban, who’s working not only one, not two, but three jobs at the same time. And he recently shared his story of how he first got there as well as how he manages to devote an equal amount of passion and effort to each job.
From O&G industry to retrenchment
Growing up as the youngest child in a family of five in Johor, Deeban discovered that he was an individual who was always curious about new things and learning how they operate.
After completing his matriculation, Deeban went on to pursue a degree in Petroleum Engineering, which ultimately helped him land a job at an oil and gas (O&G) service provider company.
Unfortunately, he spent only close to two years in the company when the Covid-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, which saw many people losing their jobs through retrenchment. And Deeban was of no exception.
For the next four to five months, I found myself trapped in a mental lurch as I was cracking my head over how to provide not only for myself, but for my family too.
“At the same time, I didn’t know what was the next step I should take in life. Though I had a vision of running my own business, I had no idea where to start,” he recalled.
Being a food delivery rider
During this ‘wilderness’ period, Deeban began looking for jobs that not only would allow him to provide for his family, but also enable him to earn a living based on a flexible schedule and put practical life skills to use.
“Most corporate jobs often require one to work at the office from morning until night, but that wasn’t something I was looking for. Rather, I was looking for a job that would let me strike a balance between my work and personal commitments.
“A friend who was working as a food delivery rider approached me and started sharing his experiences with me. As I had little idea about how it actually worked, I did my own research to get a better understanding of it,” he said.
After gaining further knowledge on what being a food delivery rider would entail, Deeban eventually became one in August 2020, where he delivered orders (and still does) throughout the bustling streets of KL, primarily in the Bangsar area.
While many don’t seem to believe that being a food delivery rider doesn’t have its perks, Deeban laid out two main benefits he’s enjoyed thus far.
“First, working based on shift hours has taught me to be disciplined while on the job. If the shift system wasn’t in place, I’d probably be finding every excuse not to make a delivery if the weather’s too hot that day.
“Second, the flexible nature of the job allows me to determine what my working shift will be. For example, if I have an errand or appointment in the afternoon, I’ll start working in the morning, fulfil the errand, then continue with deliveries once it’s done.”
However, he noted it’s only possible with proper planning beforehand as not doing so will result in unnecessary chaos.
Deeban, who makes deliveries seven days a week, said he earns an average of between RM100 and RM150 daily, though he hinted the amount can be way higher.
To be honest, you can earn way more than this. But it all boils down to how hardworking and disciplined you are,” he remarked.
Balancing 3 jobs at the same time
Aside from working as a rider full-time, Deeban also has a hand in running a poultry business and kindergarten too, with the former being a partnership with several friends, while the latter’s a partnership with his mother, who’s an ex-teacher herself.
In the poultry business, Deeban is mostly involved on the customer-end of operations like answering enquiries and taking orders. As for the kindergarten, he takes on the role of assisting his mother in carrying the daily routine.
Contrary to common belief that juggling three jobs is physically demanding, Deeban said he’s taking it in stride, largely thanks to the flexibility provided by his delivery rider gig.
‘I don’t stay down all the time’
While Deeban admits that he doesn’t face much obstacles in terms of his work, that doesn’t mean he’s immune to moments of feeling burnt out or despondent.
I do experience such moments, but I always make sure I don’t let them weigh me down as I’m not a person who gives up easily and instead turns them into a source of motivation.”
Deeban added his friends and family have been his strongest supporters throughout his journey, adding they have been very “understanding and open” over his career path as they share the same mindset with him.
When asked whether he plans to return to the O&G industry if an opportunity arises, Deeban said he’s open to the prospect of returning to his “roots” but wants to continue what he’s doing for the time being.
‘Try everything while you still can’
As daunting as managing three jobs may sound to many, Deeban believes that it’s possible as long as the person is willing to give it a shot.
“If there’s something you’ve been wanting to do your whole life, just go for it — no matter how small it may be. Don’t wait till you’re too old to act on it.
“Even if you were to fail, as least you’ve gained the experience along the way, which you can use as a ‘platform’ to improve and excel in other areas.
“If you don’t try, you’ll never find out if something works for you or not. So why not just try it out?” he said.
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