For Aspiring Digital Nomads: What To Know Before Transitioning
by Sourav Ganguly Business Development 13 October 2021
Some people can’t work efficiently in a typical workplace. They crave adventure, independence, and the ability to pursue a career without being tied to a single location. Those who want such flexibility can explore digital nomadism.
Perks Of Being A Digital Nomad
One can consider digital nomads to be today’s modern workers. They can work using certain equipment required in their field of choice. In most cases, they use electronics to work on their tasks and communicate with clients and customers.
They need to invest in the right equipment to be able to fulfill their duties. Since they can’t be tied to a personal computer, many end up building a laptop. This is to ensure they can use a portable computer that can accommodate their unique needs.
They stay connected 24/7 by connecting to public WiFis and their own internet connection. They can work from virtually anywhere without the need to commute to work or stay near their workplace. One can choose their own office for the day, whether a coffee shop is a tourist destination, in an RV in the middle of somewhere, or under a palm tree at a faraway beach.
Digital nomads can structure their time and usually work on their preferred working hours. When you find your most productive hours, you can choose that to work through, be it early in the morning or late at night. They even enjoy more time for leisure and won’t have to cancel any travel plans.
Digital nomads are less stressed compared to people working long hours at the office. There’s no boss hovering behind your back, colleagues gossiping, office politics, and dress codes to worry about. You get to learn how to manage your own financial affairs and be self-reliant in your own company.
Challenges of Digital Nomadism
This is not to say that digital nomads don’t face any problems, nor do they always have perfect days. They also face different challenges that can sometimes make them question their decisions. The following are three usual challenges digital nomads face.
Social Isolation
Some people who would rather work by themselves choose to be digital nomads. They travel to different places as they work and enjoy the flexibility their new work setup has to offer. But then, many digital nomads are prone to loneliness and depression.
When you travel as you work, you quickly realize that not everyone you spend lots of time with is your real friend. Most of them tend to be people you enjoy being with because they live conveniently close to you. You might often meet people from all walks of life, but that won’t guarantee you won’t feel lonely in a sea of cool people.
Inconsistency Of Surroundings
One perk of digital nomadism is you get to work at a different venue each day. You could be traveling in your RV one week only to stay at a hostel the next week. The inconsistency of your surroundings and the ever-changing activity you can take each day can make getting work done and staying on a single routine a tricky feat.
Lack Of Purpose
Many digital nomads end up sacrificing many things, including downsizing their lifestyle. Since travel can be expensive, those barely getting by find themselves wondering about their real purpose in life. What used to be an appealing feat now feels obsolete and can no longer satisfy their craving to leave their own legacy.
Staying Productive
Even the most successful digital nomads sometimes find their productivity levels falling due to different reasons. They could be distracted by the many new activities they can engage in or the people they meet along the way. Don’t forget the other distractions that can trigger procrastination, like your smartphone, easy access to fast food and junk food, and Netflix accessibility.
What Effective Digital Nomads Do to Stay Productive
You may have a different job than other digital nomads out there. You have varying goals, preferences, and needs. But if you need more tips on how to stay productive, consider adopting the following habits of successful and effective high-tech nomads.
- Stick to a universal morning routine
- Create your list of goals for the week
- Give your mind enough rest in between your working hours
- Use technology to minimize distractions
- Adjust your schedule according to your productive hours
- Step away from your electronics after logging out of work
- Avoid trying to control things you have no control over
These are but three must-knows if you plan on becoming a digital nomad. Know that it can be challenging to let go of your old lifestyle to work and travel. Different challenges will make you question your decision. While digital nomadism has its own perks, it is crucial that you consider all factors before committing.
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