The thought of becoming a digital nomad is certainly desirable. The idea of working remotely from any part of the world sounds freeing and exciting – especially if you already love to travel.
However, leaving behind your traditional 9-5 isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. There is a lot involved with working abroad, and you’ll need to know if it’s right for you.
Interested in learning more? Then keep on reading! In this article, we are going to talk about eight questions you should ask yourself before becoming a digital nomad.
How will you make a living?
Working remotely has great flexibility, but you still need to be able to make a living. How do you plan on earning money? What skills do you have? Remember, most of your work will have to be done online.
Consider the types of work you can perform this way and its feasibility. For instance, if you are planning to start a blog or YouTube channel, it can take months before you start generating a high income.
Do you have the right tools to work remotely?
To work on the road you’re going to need to have the necessary equipment. This includes things such as a:
- Wi-Fi Connection.
- Other Digital Devices.
You also have to ensure that you have the right to work in a specific country. For example, if you wish to visit America, you may need to apply for a US work visa. Be sure that you’re aware of the legalities, rules, and restrictions before you make any decisions.
Are you self-motivated?
Becoming a digital nomad means you won’t have a boss overseeing everything you do. You’ll need to be self-motivated and disciplined in order to meet deadlines and work efficiently.
For some, this is easier said than done. You may get lazy and put off completing tasks because you’re having too much fun. It’s crucial that you can work without supervision and are accountable for your own actions. Otherwise, you won’t be able to make any money.
Can you live a minimalistic lifestyle?
Traveling light and living minimally is part of the digital nomad lifestyle. You must be willing to part way with fancy clothes, shoes, and accessories if you are jetting from one place to another.
Again, this can be very difficult. It’s not that simple to live out of a suitcase, and you may miss having a permanent home.
Can you handle the uncertainty?
When you are living in foreign lands, there is a lot of uncertainty. You could be working with strangers and can be placed in unpredictable situations.
At times, it can be scary, especially if you’re backpacking. Not only due to the fact you’re out of routine but because of the culture shock. You’ll need to do a lot of research to ensure that you’re prepared for any mishaps along the way.
Do you enjoy socializing with strangers?
A big part of working remotely is meeting new people and socializing. If you are shy or uncomfortable in social settings, then it may not be the best career path for you.
In order to succeed and make money, you’ll have to push yourself out of your comfort zone. It takes a lot of confidence, even more so if you are traveling alone.
Are you ready to leave friends and family behind?
Speaking of socializing, while you may make new friends, you’re also going to have to leave some family behind. Homesickness is very real and comes with different challenges, including feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Of course, you can remain in contact via social media and video chats, but it’s still challenging. You’ll have to be ready to say goodbye.
Are you going to do this for a long or short time?
Finally, the last question you need to ask yourself before starting your journey is whether or not this is a short or long-term goal. This can give you a path to follow and help you establish realistic expectations.
For instance, you may wish to establish a base in one country and travel regularly if you’re planning to do this for a long time. On the other hand, if it’s a short-term adventure, you may need to prepare further in advance
You’ll also need to have a plan B in place. Sometimes things don’t work out the way you would expect!
Final Words
The digital nomad lifestyle might seem incredible, but the reality behind the scenes can be challenging. It takes a lot of hard work and determination in order to achieve your goals.
By asking yourself these questions, you can determine if it’s the right decision for you. For many, it will be the start of an exciting adventure that is full of freedom and rewards.
