It’s 2021 and the world is battling a real tough time with the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, one thing that has boomed significantly is the work culture. As the world of independent workforce changes, so do the desires, methods, and motivations.
Ever heard of the term Digital nomads?
Well, they are a thing now.
Before you start assuming the real meaning behind this fancy annotation, let’s define it.
Who are the Digital Nomads?
Digital Nomads are independent, remote workers who usually travel to various places. They can simply sit in some quaint coffee shops, public libraries, co-working slots, or any exotic location and log in!
Sounds crazy?
This is how the world is working nowadays.
The reason why this culture is growing in popularity is because of its freedom and flexibility.
You can travel anywhere in the world, just like a nomad, and still do the work!
Rely on the smart phones and the mobile hotspots for an uninterrupted internet flow and you’re good to go.
Doesn’t this sound like the perfect living dream?
If you’re a travel bug and have been waiting all your life to break free from the shackles of a 9-5 corporate job, this is it.
You might have 1000 questions darting your mind.
- How do the digital nomads work?
- Do they ever get lonely while traveling?
- Is it expensive?
- What jobs are for the digital nomads?
- Do the nomads travel in groups?
- What are the career prospects?
- How do they just start off living the nomad life?
It’s obvious to feel overwhelmed. So, wondering if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s find out.
1. More productivity
The complex work culture leaves us feeling drained.
Imagine sitting on the top of a hill (somewhere where the internet works) and enjoying a stunning view in front of you.
Sounds like your thing right?
Exploring new adventures will motivate you to get the work done sooner.
Working in new surroundings could be one of the major boosters to work more efficiently.
2. Get breakthrough ideas
Creativity strikes outside the comfort.
Working in a completely new set-up triggers the brain. The more diverse experiences you gain, the more you fuel your creativity.
So, when your brain is choked with such triggers, you’re bound to create breakthrough ideas.
3. Flexible
There is a whole world waiting to be discovered. The moment you challenge your comfort zone, magic happens.
When you engage with different cultures and people the capacity of your brain increases. You start paying attention to every minute detail.
This way traveling makes you flexible to changes and helps you learn new skills.
If you’re also someone who is struggling to strike a work-life balance, it’s time to step out!
You can kick-start your Digital Nomad lifestyle today.
But plan.
Here are a few tips that would help you plan smartly.
1. Schedule the work
Do not quit your job and then dive into the unknown.
It might be tempting at first. But once the excitement fades things get confusing.
So make a smart plan before you leave. Schedule your workload beforehand and make sure you have some money. This way you can enjoy the experience without worry.
2. Strike the Balance!
Balance is crucial. You can get carried away with the gorgeous landscapes and forget to work.
Don’t spend hours off the clock. Set clear boundaries between work and travel.
This ensures that you get your work done on time while also enjoying the lap of nature.
3. Take it Slow
Remember this is all new. So, start slow. This would help you to maintain a stable work-life balance.
Don’t hop from one city to another every other day.
Settle somewhere for a couple of weeks, enjoy the ambiance, and do your work.
4. The Wi-Fi
Online = Wi-Fi!
Before you choose a destination, make sure that the Wi-Fi situation is secured.
Every country is different. Do some prior research and check the Wi-Fi situation on the spot.
Well, without this, you cannot dream to start working.
5. Bond with people
Why do you think the digital nomad culture is flourishing?
Because it lets you travel around the world without having to leave your job.
So utilize every minute of it.
Make sure that you connect with the locals and have fun!
Additionally, coming across people can also help you network for future opportunities.
6. Install VPN
When you work as a digital nomad, you have to connect to Wi-Fi networks in different places.
Make sure that all the important information is safe. Or else, the banking details and other personal messages could be easily accessed.
Use a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) to save your data.
7. Invest in good headphones
So far, you have invested in headphones to enjoy your favorite track.
Now, get a good pair of noise-canceling headphones.
You could be stuck in a place that is busy and noisy.
Therefore, to avoid disturbances and balance your work in unconventional places, buy yourself a good noise-canceling earphone.
8. Travel Insurance
Mishaps could be anytime anywhere.
If you read other people’s experiences you can get an idea about the inconveniences and injuries.
This could be anything from lost luggage to petty theft, delayed flights, or any other thing.
Hence, travel insurance is a must.
Moreover, there are plans designed specifically for the Digital Nomads.
9. Best Time
If you have a job that demands your presence at specific intervals or requires meetings, make sure that you keep the time in mind.
You surely don’t want to wake up to emails flooding your mailbox or waking up to the scream of your manager at 4 am!
Therefore, communicate your routine in advance. Choose the best time to meet the deadlines and communicate with your team.
This way you don’t have to wake up at random hours.
10. Log Off!
As said earlier, set your boundaries.
This is the time when you get to be your boss.
But everything has its perk!
The whole point of going out to a new place is to experience new things and activities.
While the toxic work culture has made us believe that hustle equals productivity.
It’s a lie.
The emails could wait. The meeting could be rescheduled.
Don’t waste the opportunity running behind the work schedule. Get some time off and relax!
11. Carry a Water Bottle
Sounds silly, isn’t it?
Well, once you land in a spot with no clean drinking water, things might make sense.
Destinations all over the world are struggling with pollution and of course water pollution.
Therefore, it’s good to be a responsible traveler.
Get along a reusable water bottle so that you can drink safely.