Becoming a digital nomad used to be a dream for many workers, but one that did not materialise for most. In recent years, though, more and more people have been turning away from the 9 to 5 desk life and towards working at their own pace.
Digital nomads get to enjoy working remotely from anywhere they choose, whilst being in control of their working hours, finances and working environment. If this sounds like something you would love to do, read on for some tips to make it happen.
Consider your workspace
The most common ideal of being a digital nomad is that you can work whilst travelling the world. Most jobs require a stable internet connection for sending emails, attending virtual meetings and actually completing work which can be hard to guarantee in some more remote areas of the globe.
Before you set off on your travels you will need to plan where you will be working. Not only is a stable internet connection essential, but the environment around you needs to be considered. Some people thrive in busy environments, but others prefer peace and quiet. If you regularly need to be involved in meetings, you may want to find a quieter place to set up.
Plan and manage your finances
Before you embark on a new chapter of working wherever you fancy, you will need to have your finances in order.
Make it a habit to track your income and outgoings even when you are travelling. By keeping an eye on this you can plan your next steps according to your budget.
It is always a good idea to have a reserve of savings in case of emergencies. Look into cash ISAs as they are a great way to earn interest on a lump sum without having to do anything!
Practice self-discipline
Travelling usually means taking a break from work and going on holiday. If you have to incorporate work into this, it can be hard to find the right balance.
Although the 9 to 5 isn’t right for some people, try to schedule set hours to work each day. Even if it is every morning, you are able to leave your afternoons free to explore or relax without the nagging worry of work in the back of your mind.
Communicate clearly
Many digital nomads are freelancers who move between different clients and contracts. One of the biggest ways to be a successful freelancer is communication.
You need to be clear on your expectations for working hours, pay and timescales as well as what the client expects. By having this conversation before taking on any new work, you are able to control your workload and avoid burning out.
