Is Being a Digital Nomad Worth It?
Being a digital nomad is great, as you can explore different parts of the world while working.
You’ve probably seen social media pictures of remote workers sitting on white-sand beaches with a laptop in hand, making a lot of money and wondering what they did to get there. In this generation, it is the ideal fantasy. The ability to travel the world while making money is a dream many wish they could attain.
We’ve got good news for you. It's achievable, many people are doing it, and more will join the bandwagon. People who make money while traveling are called digital nomads. In 2021, the United States was home to more than 15 million digital nomads. Here are the steps to get started if you want to become one.
Reduce Location Ties and Expenses
By definition, a digital nomad is a person who is not restricted to one location. They move across the world at will as they work online. So the first step in becoming a digital nomad is recognizing the things that tie you to one location and eliminating them or finding a way to break the bond with them.
Long-term leases on apartments and vehicles should go first. Subscription services such as gym membership should also be eliminated. If you have high-interest credit card debt, pay it off, so you don't have to dip into your savings while traveling.
Become a Freelancer
A digital nomad can go anywhere worldwide because they make money while traveling. Becoming a freelancer is the easiest way to work online. Start by identifying your skills that can function in remote settings.
Such skills include writing, marketing, and graphic design, among others. You can gain necessary skills from coding bootcamps such as Thinkful, App Academy, Springboard, General Assembly, and Coding Dojo.
You can pick up on at least two skills you find most relatable. Next, join remote work platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer and scour for gigs by industry or skill. With the world shifting into a remote working system, you’re bound to see lots of opportunities.
Build a Business
While the barrier to entry into freelancing is low, it takes a lot for a freelancer to make good money working remotely. That’s why you need a business mentality. First, build a portfolio of your work to help you showcase what you are capable of to your clients. You can also create a website for your business to build upon your reputation.
Then, start applying for as many jobs as possible on job sites such as Upwork. When you secure a job, exceed expectations to encourage the client to hire you again. Remember that you need a steady income to sustain your nomad lifestyle.
Choose Destinations
Choosing your destination can be overwhelming, considering how big the world is. The obvious direction to take is selecting locations you have dreamed of traveling to since you were young. The problem with this approach is that you might land in a destination that’s impossible to live and work in, depending on your background and budget.
So it's better to be honest and realistic about your income and needs. Narrow down your list of destinations based on the cost of living, considering you’re just starting. Low-cost areas will allow you to live larger and partake in activities and adventures you’ve wanted so badly.
Create a plan
With no strings attached to your home, a business with consistent income, and a list of destinations ready, the last task at hand before you hit the road is to create a plan you’ll stick with. Get organized and have a to-do list.
Don’t expect digital nomadism to be easy on you. Many things might not go the way you wish. 30 percent of digital nomads report working more than 40 hours per week. Therefore, you have to be willing to put in the work.
You need something to keep you on track with your personal and career goals. A routine keeps you grounded. It reminds you to prioritize the most important things and to take care of yourself. Also, backup plans and alternative passive income streams can sustain you when your main focus isn’t doing that well.
Get moving
Once you’ve taken all the necessary steps to become a digital nomad, it's time to hit the road. You’ll not be tied back to your location because you no longer have anything to lose. Secondly, you’ll have a well-established digital business as a freelancer which generates enough income to meet your needs.
Lastly, with locations in mind and a plan in hand, you’ll have a sense of direction and the motivation to go ahead. Digital nomadism is a dream for many. While it comes with challenges, if you prepare well enough, it can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
Are you thinking of branching out to digital nomadism? We would love to learn more about you and your expertise and see if there’s a fit for our Collective roster. Learn more here.
