How to Become a Digital Nomad

Working remotely is the new norm, but what if you want to take it a step further and become a digital nomad, traveling around the world and working at the same time? It seems like a dream come true, doesn’t it? But what is a digital nomad, is it possible to achieve and how do you become one? Read on to find out more.

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is a broad term but it simply means a person who works remotely and this gives them the freedom to live and work anywhere in the world. The term can apply to anyone who has an online job that gives them the flexibility to work in any location. The word “nomad” isn’t an official word to describe someone’s job, it is a colloquial way of saying that someone travels while they work. This term covers more than just freelancers and travel bloggers, a variety of jobs including entrepreneurs and TEFL teachers can live the digital nomad lifestyle.

How do you become one?

Becoming a digital nomad is a huge lifestyle change, especially if you have been used to a typical office-based job.

The pros of being a digital nomad

There are many great reasons to live the digital nomad life. First of all, having the freedom to work anywhere gives you the chance to not only live where you like but to visit new places and always stay on the move, if this is something that you want to do.

When you travel for work, you always get the opportunity to meet lots of new people from different backgrounds. Experiencing other cultures, making memories, and earning money, what could be better than that? If you want to expand your worldview and witness some amazing sights, then this is a definite pro of being a digital nomad.

Being your own boss can be another reason why people choose the digital nomad lifestyle. If you have the skills required to work for yourself on the move and don’t want to answer to anyone else, then being a digital nomad might be the right move for you. Many choose this lifestyle because they want a better quality of life. Do you want to live right by the beach? Travel to a few different cities throughout the year? The freedom to go to new places is one of the main reasons why people crave the nomadic lifestyle.

The cons of being a digital nomad

I don’t mean to be a glass-half-full person here but if something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Being a digital nomad is extremely difficult to do. You have to be okay with the uncertainty of it all. If you don’t feel comfortable or secure enough to quit your job on a whim and start working remotely and freely as you travel around the world, then maybe this life isn’t for you.

Having no stable income can be stressful. Sometimes, there are jobs with a stable salary that give their employees the freedom to work remotely from various or many locations. But if you are one of those people that is freelancing or working project by project, not having a stable income can be hard.

There can be tax complications too regarding your pay, whatever country you live in, or whatever countries you plan to visit during your digital nomad journey, be sure to know where you stand with this. It can be a lot of hard work, especially if you are self-employed and a digital nomad.

Another important thing to realize is that if you are a digital nomad who is traveling alone, you might also get lonely. You might feel like you are missing out on things happening in your family or friends’ lives and it can be difficult to work and live alone.

Is this for me?

You have to know what your priorities are and what you want your life to be like. If you don’t have any responsibilities and like the idea of having the freedom to work and live wherever you like, then the nomad life might be something you should consider. But if you like the idea of having roots, staying close to your loved ones and having a more traditional day-to-day life, then maybe you should stick to what you are comfortable with. Being a nomad is no picnic. There is a lot to think about and only you can make that decision for yourself, follow your heart and never look back!