Digital nomads are people who use technology to work remotely while travelling around the world. There are many reasons why these folks choose to live and work as digital nomads. Some professions may be better suited for remote work than others, but ultimately, the decision of where to visit and work depends on the individual’s personal circumstances.
If you have ever felt the inclination to adopt the digital nomad lifestyle, there are a few things you need to know before you take the plunge. That is because, just as in most things in life, this type of lifestyle has its pros and cons. You need to be aware these before taking the plunge, because – being a digital nomad may not be all that it’s cracked up to be!
So let’s start with the pros.
The pros of being a digital nomad are:
a. Freedom and flexibility
Digital nomads can choose where and when they want to work. They are not tied down to a desk, they can work anywhere as long as they have internet connection. Even if they have to keep regular hours, they have days off and free time after work, which leaves them free to travel and explore new places while still earning an income.
Digital nomads who are self-employed can also decide who they want to work with, set their own schedules, choose their own clients or projects. In other words, they work on their own terms.
b. Cultural immersion
Digital nomads can visit off-the-beaten-path places and stay in any place as long as they want, if they want to really soak up the culture. By living and working in various locations, they meet new people, interact with locals, make friends, gain new perspectives and experience firsthand the different customs, traditions, and languages.
c. Lower cost of living
Many digital nomads work from countries where the cost of living is lower than their home country. Living and working in these countries helps them to save money on expenses like rent, food, and transportation. For example, renting an apartment, staying in hostels, or opting for co-living spaces can be more affordable in certain locations. Some countries offer more affordable healthcare services or insurance plans with lower premiums. All these savings can lead to more savings and therefore more money to spend on new adventures.
d. Work-Life balance
Digital nomads have more room to prioritize their health, wellness, and personal interests while still pursuing their careers. Whether it’s exploring a new city, pursuing a passion, enjoying more quiet moments or spending quality time with loved ones, digital nomads have more flexibility to create a harmonious integration of work and personal life for themselves.
Moreover, the absence of long commutes to work and office politics can contribute to lower stress levels and improved overall happiness.
e. Personal Growth
Working as a digital nomad can be a challenging experience, as they have to work in different work environments, collaborate with clients from various backgrounds, and handle diverse projects. These challenges help them to develop resourcefulness, adaptability, and self-motivation. They also learn problem-solving skill, communication skills, and cross-cultural competence. Developing and enhancing these qualities become a part of their personal growth and contribute to their professional development.
The above are merely some of the advantages of being a digital nomad. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? However, before you sell all your possesions and embark on this new lifestyle, you must consider also the cons. Yes, as in all matters, there are also downsides to this type of lifestyle. If you want to know what the cons are, read my next post.