Are you considering leaving your office job for something more adventurous? Do you want to work while enjoying new locations and immersed in a different culture? If your answer is yes, you may want to consider being a digital nomad.
A digital nomad is a lifestyle that allows a person to work anywhere without having to stay in one place, whether in the same country or in other parts of the globe. Digital nomads usually have jobs that allow them to work online.
While it can be appealing to be a digital nomad, you may wonder how to go about it and if it is something you can do. Here below is a short guide to help you determine if being a digital nomad is for you:
1. Available Opportunities
First and foremost, you need to see what opportunities you have to be a digital nomad. Some companies allow remote work and support digital nomads, while others may have certain restrictions. You must see which employers will help your digital nomad lifestyle and tailor your resume accordingly.
2. Skill Set
Aside from knowing your opportunities, you need to see if you have the proper skill set to succeed as a digital nomad and what work you need to complete. You need to be able to hit your deadlines no matter where you are on the globe and get the job done in any given environment. It would help if you were also tech-savvy because you must troubleshoot when something affects your work.
3. Your Needs
As a digital nomad, you must be clear about what you need and can’t live without. You will be moving a lot, so you need only the essentials and not be held back by any material possessions. You should be able to get rid of your material possessions and have those that you genuinely love nearby or in a secure place.
4. Finances
As a digital nomad, you must be careful with your finances. In case something goes wrong, you have to make sure you have enough money to pay for your current lodgings, food, transportation, internet connection, flights, and emergency money. Your salary must be consistent to maintain this lifestyle, significantly if you must move to a new country and start building your foundation.
5. Logistics
You must ensure you can live the lifestyle without problems. You must have the correct travel insurance, internet service, credit card, valid passport, laptop and visa. You must also register with the country you plan to work in as a digital nomad.
Like having an office job, digital nomads will face challenges that may prevent them from enjoying the life of freedom and adventure it promises those who want to try it. However, if you want to try it for yourself and succeed, do the necessary research, prepare everything you need, and don’t be afraid to adjust. Remember, you are the only person who can say if you will succeed in this lifestyle.
If this is your first time thinking about being a digital nomad, you may want to check out my book on Successful Freelancing here.
