What Is a Digital Nomad and How Do You Become One?

What Is a Digital Nomad and How Do You Become One?

Do you want to explore the world? Do you like freedom and flexibility? Do you yearn for an adventure? If the answer to all three questions is yes, then you should think about becoming a digital nomad! Unlike the good old nomads, the digital ones don’t move from one place to another in search of food and shelter. On the contrary, they travel around the globe, without any restraints, and at the same time earn money. Becoming a digital nomad at first may seem like a distant dream, but it is completely attainable. With the help of our detailed guide and through preparations, your dream can come true. 

Step One — Freelance

The first step towards becoming a digital nomad is to find a job. Not any job, but a remote one. Only with a remote job will you be able to live or travel wherever you want and support yourself. Luckily to you, there are hundreds of sites where you can earn money online. From full time and part-time to freelancing, extra income, and hourly deals. 

Before you start looking for a job, you should think about your skills and experience. If you want, you can make a list of your strongest abilities. When you start searching for a job, you can see which ones suit you the best based on your list. However, most freelancing jobs require some technical and communication skills. Most websites allow searching by specific skill or industry which makes it easier to find the most suitable position. Designers and IT experts are on demand right now, but you can find editing, writing, and marketing jobs as well.

The process of finding a remote job can sometimes be too overwhelming. In this case, you can always search for some internship or volunteering opportunities. Enrolling to a foreign university and studying abroad is also a good idea. It is a safer option than freelancing. Still, you might need to secure a resident permit or a visa to stay in the chosen country. 

Step Two — Invest in Communicative Tools 

When you find the right job, the next step is to invest in quality communicative tools. This is a smart investment. Since you will be working and traveling, you need to stay in touch with your coworkers. Chances are your coworkers also work remotely so great internal communication is a must. There are so many different management tools created especially for remote work. Skype, Instant Messaging, or intranet keep you and your coworkers connected regardless of which part of the world you work from. Also, you can still work together and share documents like in a real workplace. The only problem that can arise is because of different time zones. To prevent this from happening, make sure you notify your managers and colleagues of your location and time zone. This way, they will know how and when to reach you even if you are frequently changing locations. 

What Is a Digital Nomad and How Do You Become One?

Step Three — Make a Plan 

Now that you landed a job, and equipped yourself with proper tools, you can sit down and make a detailed plan. Think about the first city or country you want to visit. Also, think about your possibilities and does that destination have everything you need and want. Search the Internet to find all the information you may need. Do you need a visa? What is the cost of living? How fast is the internet connection? Is it safe? Answers to these questions will tell you if the destination is right for you. Bear in mind that as a digital nomad, you can move somewhere else if the location doesn’t suit you. It would be useful to join some groups on social media or communities with other digital nomads. Some more experienced members will surely be able to help you out and resolve all your doubts. For example, they can help you find the perfect accommodation or tell you which coffee shop has the best internet speed. Who knows, maybe you will make new friends or find some interesting job opportunities.

What Is a Digital Nomad and How Do You Become One?

Step Four — Secure Accommodation

Fourth step is about finding the right accommodation. Depending on your personality and preferences, you can explore various options. For example, if you are an extrovert who doesn’t like to be alone, co-ops or hostels might be your cup of tea. On the other hand, if you like peace and quiet, renting an apartment is a good idea. Airbnb and similar sites can help you find a place that suits your budget. If you have a higher income, and you want to have a full service at your disposal, then homestays and hotels are the best solution. You won’t have to think about your laundry and food which leaves you with plenty of time for exploring and enjoying your freedom. 

Step Five — Join the Community

The final step is an easy one. All it takes is to become a member of a digital nomad community. There are so many people already living the dream. You are sharing the same path. Not only can they give all the help you need but also the support. It’s one thing when you read about it, and completely another when you hear someone’s experience. This community gets bigger every day — from Budapest to Buenos Aires. No matter where you decide to go. There is always someone who can tell you exactly what to expect when you finally arrive to the preferred destination. 

Sarah Smith
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