Guidelines for Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle
The digital nomad lifestyle can be a dream come true for anyone with a severe case of wanderlust. If you want to be able to travel the world while making a living for yourself, know that it is doable. That said, this kind of way of life has a unique set of challenges you need to be aware of before diving in. So, do you have what it takes to thrive as a digital nomad?
Being a digital nomad myself, I don’t like staying tied to one spot for too long. Nonetheless, the process of leaving a place that started to feel like home and settling at a new destination you know little about never gets less daunting. It certainly helps if you are extroverted and don’t hesitate to approach strangers for guidance.
I suggest you start small – travel to different states or cities within your home country before going abroad. The digital nomad lifestyle is easier when you’re traveling solo, but it can be more fun if you have a partner, pet, or family to accompany you. If you’re eager to embrace this way of life, here are a few guidelines to get you started.
How to be a Digital Nomad
1. Picking Up the Basics
The basics for being able to work from anywhere at any time are a decent laptop and a stable internet connection. You can get a lot done while you are connected to the internet and possess sufficient battery backup. Whenever I’m traveling within the United States, Xfinity always has my back with reliable and fast internet.
If you’re looking for an internet provider that makes an excellent travel buddy, get in touch with Xfinity customer service today. They have much to offer to digital nomads with millions of accessible hotspots and affordable mobile data plans. You may have to rely on public Wi-Fi from time to time, so acquiring a secure VPN app for your mobile devices is also recommended.
When you’re traveling the world, you must ensure that you have the most flexible banking options and payment methods. You don’t want to be stranded for cash in an unfamiliar place, so do your financial homework beforehand.
2. Building Your Skillset
If you already have a job that allows you to work remotely, that’s one big burden off your shoulders. If you’re doing well in the freelancing game, that’s great too. However, income from freelance jobs can be inconsistent and variable, so I advise you to expand your skill set.
For example, if you’re not getting enough opportunities for expertise in one area, you should be able to switch to an alternative income stream. Building a strong profile on leading social media sites and freelance platforms helps attract more prospects.
Put together and manage a stunning portfolio that may appeal to recruiters from all over the world. Take online courses that can help you hone your existing skills and stay up-to-date with all kinds of developments, such as changes in market trends and client demands.
3. Budgeting and Planning
How often you travel and the places you choose to visit ultimately depend upon what kind of money you are making. If you have enough savings to keep you afloat for at least six months without a job, that’s not bad. While traveling does not have to be super expensive, it cannot be too cheap either.
If your approach involves closing your eyes and throwing a dart on a world map to decide your next destination, that’s way too risky. You must start with the cheapest places to live and then make your way up from there. Then again, don’t travel too far from home if it’s your first time.
Look up general living costs in a destination you like. For instance, how much money do you need to rent a space in a decent neighborhood? How much does it cost to enjoy three wholesome meals a day? What are your transportation options within the area and which one is most cost-effective?
4. Networking
When you travel to foreign places and hope to settle in for a while, it’s crucial to interact with the locals and make at least a few friends. Getting yourself acquainted with multiple residents of a destination before going there is even better. Online and offline networking is an integral part of the digital nomad lifestyle, so work on growing your social media networks first.
You should look for digital nomad communities online and join to meet like-minded people. These people can facilitate your journey by sharing personal experiences and offering valuable advice. Moreover, subscribe to all the relevant job boards and befriend more professionals in your field of work.
5. Simplifying Life
Roamers cannot afford to carry too much baggage – emotional and literal. Get used to packing light because taking too much stuff from one place to another is going to be tiresome and inconvenient. Strive to be a minimalist and refrain from getting too attached to material things. As far as relationships go, long-term commitments aren’t compatible with a nomadic mindset.
If you meet a potential partner or wish to keep a pet, you might have to give up on your wanderlust. However, if this potential partner is accustomed to the digital nomad lifestyle like you, this could be the beginning of bigger adventures. Many nomads train their pets to accompany them everywhere, so you can do that too if you’re willing.
Final Thoughts
The digital nomad lifestyle may seem fun and exciting, but there’s more to it than that. All the exposure adds to your general knowledge, boosts your confidence, and lets you immerse in different cultures. Despite the charms and benefits, it is not for everyone.