The digital nomad lifestyle offers a unique work experience that comes with the autonomy of not being chained to an office. Like the name implies, it affords professionals with the opportunity to work remotely while traveling freely. It requires smart planning, adaptability and personal drive to make it work for both the digital nomad and employer.
Before you embark on this adventure, it is essential to conduct thorough research, consider the pros and cons of making this move and start small to see if it aligns with your lifestyle and career goals.
How Digital Nomads Grew In Popularity
Despite the difficulties of the pandemic era, many people made the best of it. They moved from crowded, expensive cities to places that offered open space, sunny weather, lower taxes and good schools, while earning the same compensation.
During COVID, bankers, hedge fund managers, tech executives and other professionals fled from big cities, such as New York, for the scenic Hamptons, Palm Beach, Martha's Vineyard or the suburbs of Connecticut and New Jersey.
Those who were not tethered to one location and dreamed of living in interesting and exciting locations, from within the United States to around the world, adopted digital nomad lifestyles. A number of countries, such as Barbados, Estonia, Bermuda and Georgia, in need of revenue, enticed Americans to migrate offering visas and financial incentives.
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Technology enabled these remote workers to relatively easily stay connected with their managers and colleagues, while also living their best life as a nomad—open to moving around any time they want.
Benefits And Disadvantages Of The Digital Nomad Lifestyle
Upending your life to chase your wanderlust is a substantial decision that requires serious consideration. It is important that, for you, the positives far outweigh the negatives.
Pros Of Being A Digital Nomad
The beautiful aspect of being a digital nomad is that you can work from almost anywhere, and all you need is a solid internet connection and technology. The opportunity to immerse yourself in new environments pulls you out of your bubble and you are able to learn about different cultures, pick up new languages and broaden your perspective, which can translate to your work.
Moving somewhere new where you don’t know anybody can be character-building. You’re forced to strengthen your communication skills, especially nonverbal cues if you cannot speak the same language. You quickly learn to adapt and, when pushed outside of your comfort zone, you discover how to think outside the box, which can make you a better critical thinker and problem solver.
Cons Of Being A Digital Nomad
To start, navigating international visas and regulations can be challenging. To make the travel element possible, you will likely have to rely on savings, which can be a barrier, as not everyone has money stowed away. It is easier to pick up and leave if you are single with no children. If you have a family, you have much more to consider.
Working remotely can be isolating. The digital nomad lifestyle can be even more lonely when you are away from everyone you know. With no boss in sight, it can be hard to motivate yourself. To be a digital nomad, self-discipline is crucial, especially with the temptation of beautiful scenery and adventure.
Not all locations offer consistent internet connectivity, which can impact your productivity.
With companies pushing for a return to office, you may be given the ultimatum to come back to headquarters or resign. Even with the remote option available, there is no denying that the proximity bias exists for some employers. Lately, fully remote workers have been the target for layoffs. They are also not given the same opportunities for career advancement.
Digital Nomad Jobs To Explore
It's possible to hold onto your current position while working as a digital nomad, if the option is available to you by your employer. However, if you are looking for a job change that will be more cohesive to your digital nomad lifestyle, choose a remote job that aligns with your skillset and passions. Start with freelance projects or find companies that offer remote positions.
Here’s A List Of Jobs You Can Do As A Digital Nomad
- Virtual Assistant
- Web Developer
- Content Writer
- Social Media Manager
- Graphic Designer
- Online Marketing Specialist
- SEO Specialist
- Data Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Online Tutor
- Translator
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Online Coach
- Customer Service Representative
- Language Teacher
- Travel Blogger
- Freelance Writer
- App Developer
- E-commerce Entrepreneur
Do You Have What It Takes?
If you plan to live or travel to various destinations, you must be able adapt to continual changes. You’ll need to hone skills to become self-reliant, a problem solver and planner.
Possessing strong people and communication skills will go a long way. At times, you may need to demonstrate resilience, especially when you’re in a foreign country, don’t have a good grasp of the language or people to turn to for help and experience bouts of homesickness.
Although some digital nomads choose international destinations, exploring different U.S. cities is a relatively good way to start out. It allows you to experience diverse cultures, landscapes, and communities without the complexities of global travel.
Important Steps To Take
Before you settle in a place, consider the cost of living, internet access, visa requirements and cultural aspects. Create a budget that covers travel, living expenses and work equipment. Invest in remote essentials including a laptop, a portable hotspot and workspace.
If you plan to work as a digital nomad in Europe and other countries outside the U.S., you will need a solid game plan. Passports are essential for international travel. Renew or apply well in advance. Each nation has specific visa requirements for long-term stays and working remotely. Make sure to research the visa options for each country you plan to visit.
Ensure you have sufficient funds to last the duration of your stay. Factor in fluctuations in currency exchange rates and potential visa fees.
You’ll need to be organized and consider purchasing travel adapters, international data plans and cloud storage solutions. Ensure your work equipment is portable and secure. Whether you are on your own or with a partner or family, check your healthcare provider to see if you’re covered. If not, look into the healthcare system of your destinations. Consider paying for travel insurance in case of emergencies or an issue arises.
Plan ahead. Is your destination safe? Do you have accommodations for lodging, meals and transportation? Do you speak the language? Learning basic phrases will enhance your travel experience.
