12 Steps To Becoming A Digital Nomad
Becoming a digital nomad involves a combination of personal, professional, and logistical preparations. You have to be both mentally and physically prepared. It looks glamorous seeing others doing it, but believe me, as a digital nomad myself, it takes some getting used to. Once you adapt to the lifestyle however, the freedom is immeasurable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Consider the cost of living in your desired locations and budget accordingly
1. Self-Assessment: Determine if the digital nomad lifestyle is right for you. Are you comfortable with constant change, and can you handle uncertainty? Ensure you have or can develop skills that are in demand in a remote work environment.
2. Financial Planning:
Save money for emergencies and unexpected expenses. Consider the cost of living in your desired locations and budget accordingly. Familiarize yourself with the tax implications of working in different countries.
3. Choose a Job or Business:
Remote Job: There are various job boards like We Work Remotely, Remote.co, and FlexJobs, where you can find remote positions. Freelancing: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal can be a starting point. Specialize in areas like writing, web development, design, or marketing. Online Business: Start an e-commerce store, blog, affiliate marketing site, or offer online courses.
4. Tools and Equipment:
Invest in a good laptop, reliable headphones, and any other essential equipment for your work.
Use tools like Slack, Trello, and Zoom for communication and project management.
5. Research Destinations:
Look for countries with good internet connectivity, safety, and affordable living. Websites like Nomad List can provide insights into various cities regarding their suitability for digital nomads.
6. Accommodations and Workspaces:
Explore options like co-living spaces, hostels, Airbnb, or local rentals.
Consider co-working spaces or coffee shops as work venues. Platforms like Coworker can help you find co-working spaces worldwide.
7. Health and Insurance:
Invest in travel insurance that covers health, trip cancellations, and gear loss/theft.
Look for specific nomad insurance products, like those offered by SafetyWing or World Nomads.
8. Legal Considerations:
Ensure you have the appropriate visa or permit for your destination. Not all countries allow digital nomads to work on tourist visas. Stay informed about visa regulations, which can change and may have nuances based on your nationality.
9. Networking:
Join digital nomad communities online and offline. Facebook groups, online forums, or platforms like Meetup can help you connect with fellow nomads. Attend digital nomad retreats or conferences.
10. Stay Organized:
Regularly review and adjust your plans and budgets.
Manage your time wisely, especially if you’re working across different time zones.
11. Stay Adaptable:
Things might not always go as planned. Be prepared for challenges, whether it’s an internet outage, visa issues, or a personal emergency.
12. Personal Wellbeing:
Keep a healthy routine with regular exercise, healthy eating, and ample rest. Make time for leisure, exploration, and social connections. Balance is key to sustaining the nomad lifestyle in the long run.
Remember, the digital nomad lifestyle offers a lot of freedom but also comes with its set of challenges. Preparation and adaptability are crucial.
