It’s 2021, and people are no longer interested in being chained to their desks. They’re searching for freedom while enjoying the rest of their lives on earth. But they’re not sure how to transition. If this is you, keep reading to learn how to transition from corporate life to Digital Nomad.
What’s a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is defined as someone who is location-independent but works remotely.
There are three types of nomads.
- The first type is the one that convinces their boss to allow them to work remotely.
- The second is the one that quits their job to travel and work on their blog or business.
- The third is one that applies to a remote job, gets it, and then begins travel.
All are great ways to begin your nomad journey.
But keep reading for five ways to transition to being a nomad.
Five Ways to Transition to Being a Digital Nomad
Digital Nomad #1. Make a Decision
If you still work a 9-5 and you don’t want to give up your job, consider asking your bosses to let you work remotely. If it’s a foreign concept to the company, be prepared to show them extensively how you will be accountable, get your tasks done and go above and beyond for the company.
If you’re not too picky about staying at your job, start planning to break ties. I don’t recommend doing this without a solid plan to fall back on. Begin looking at remote jobs, note the qualifications, and give your resume a remote refresh.
Remote work isn’t the same as corporate work. Some skills you think are menial are very useful for working remotely. Consult a professional to help with this step. I used It’s A Travel OD.
Digital Nomad #2. Set a Budget
Most nomads will tell you they had thousands saved up. I’m not one of those nomads. I didn’t have huge savings. I had one client and a few contracts when I got started.
I chose the luxury budget lifestyle, which gave me the freedom to live the life I always lived. A luxury budget means that rather than splurging on a $1000 a month apartment, I spent my time luxury hostel hopping. For a four-week stay, most times I paid between $180-200, all the amenities of an apartment, and I had more than enough wiggle room to splurge on what mattered to me.
So decide from now what your living budget is. What you can’t compromise on and what you can afford to compromise with. This leads you to the next step.
Digital Nomad #3. Choose Your Location
Are you going to hop from country to country, or will you choose a country that provides an option to stay long-term?
I ultimately want to settle in a country long-term, but thanks to COVID, that country hasn’t been open. I could have just waited, but I chose to live my best life, responsibly.
I skip from location to location after a few months. It gives me what I need mentally, and if I like it, I may stay longer. However, this isn’t something you have to do.
Most countries are now offering Remote Work Visas. So if you’re from a place that has brutal winters, the Caribbean or Central America may be where you’re dreaming about.
However, match your location to your budget. The Caribbean is expensive, so your money won’t go a long way there. But Central America, for example, is very affordable, and your money will go a longer way than in most countries.
Digital Nomad #4. Transition into a Minimal Lifestyle
If you plan to just move to another country and settle down, then skip this.
But if you intend to be a digital nomad who wants to see as many countries as possible, then you need this. Be prepared to live from a suitcase.
I remember thinking, packing was going to be hell because I never know what I want to wear any day of the week. And it was. Even though I followed a guide, I still took more items than I needed. I.e. swimsuits. I had enough swimsuits for two people. (I’ve learned my lesson)
You can’t take everything with you, as tempting as it is. You need 4-6 shirts maximum, 1 pair of jeans, 2 shorts and 6-8 underwear and 2 pairs of shoes (max). I didn’t mention swimsuits because I haven’t figured out how many is enough as yet!
If you practice this before you venture off, I promise it will be easier than it sounds.
Digital Nomad #5. Don’t Overthink It, Take the Leap
As humans, we over-research. We read so much on a topic that we end up dreaming about it.
I do it too, so you’re not alone. But after you’ve taken the above steps, just leap. A hundred things can go wrong, but a thousand things can go right and you’ll be a better person for it!
Get Ready to Live Your Best Nomad Life
Being a digital nomad isn’t ultimately a job, but it’s a lifestyle. It’s a simple transition from dreaming about a travel lifestyle to living it and loving it. It’s also an easier transition than most people think.
If you’ve been thinking about it for a while, you’re not alone, and at every chapter in your life, you will find support. Trust your instincts and just go with it.
If you’ve transitioned from corporate life to becoming a Digital Nomad, leave a comment and tell me which was the most difficult step for you!
by: Dawn Demeritte
