Digital Nomads: What They Are and How to Become One

Digital nomads use technology to travel and work at the same time. Being able to travel and visit different places frequently, but without having to pay for a professional career, are the most attractive points of this modality.

What are digital nomads?

These are people who use technology to perform their professional tasks remotely, that is, without having a fixed base somewhere.

It may seem like a home office, but it is different because these people have a nomadic lifestyle.

Nomads are people who do not have a fixed address or home and are always moving from place to place.

In this case, they are called digital nomads, because in addition to living and getting to know other places, they practice digital professions, which can be carried out from anywhere, with just the internet, a notebook or even a cell phone.

What types of professions can a digital nomad have?

Digital Nomadism is characterized by the possibility of always moving and getting to know new cities, but keeping your work up to date.

Therefore, any profession that allows you to have this lifestyle applies to the term.

Nomadic peoples are divided between hunters, gatherers and herders. They move frequently in order to find new pastures for their livestock.

The professions they pursue are viable for their lifestyle and sufficient to guarantee their existence and not tie them down to any one place.

In Digital Nomadism, it's no different. You need to choose a profession that guarantees you enough income to sustain your lifestyle and that doesn't tie you down anywhere.

There are professions that do not apply to this style, not because they cannot, but because this regional instability would not be positive for their career and the execution of their professional activities, for example, doctors, dentists and lawyers.

However, other professions fit very well, including those related to computing and communications. Even freelance professionals can be digital nomads.

In fact, if you have an employment relationship with a company, you can even be a digital nomad too, as long as there is no need to be physically present at the company and the company is aware of your situation.

How to become a digital nomad?

The first step to becoming a digital nomad is to choose a job that is not location-dependent, for example, you can work as a freelancer in different areas:

Designer;
Editor;
Infoproducer of digital products;
Content creator;
Proofreader;
Translator;
Affiliate;
Typist;
Advertising;
Photographer;
Video and text editor;
SEO Analyst;
Social Media Manager;
Web Designer.

After thinking about the right profession, here are some other important steps to follow.

#Organize yourself financially

This step is essential to paving the way for a smoother path. The first few months of adaptation can be very difficult, and if you don't have a stable financial structure, it can be even more complicated.

Therefore, before you start, have a financial plan and an emergency fund. Many digital nomads end up not being successful in their careers because they do not have adequate financial planning.

#ALearn the necessary skills

Being a good professional, mastering and knowing very well the area you have decided to work in is essential for a successful career and professional stability.

Look for courses and content that will help you in this process, and don't forget to always put everything you learn into practice.

#Sharing your work

There are many different ways to promote your work to attract clients. You can build your portfolio in different ways, and it can vary depending on the field you work in.

However, the best channel for this is social media. There, you will be able to have a greater reach and attract the attention of the right audience.

For example, if you are a photographer, create a special Instagram profile to share photos of your work.

If you are a writer or journalist, you can create a blog to post your texts, for example.

#Prepare yourself emotionally

Changes have a big impact on our emotions and psychology. That's why it's important to have emotional management and balance.

Life changes can have a big impact on your emotions, especially if you’re alone. Fear of the future, lack of stability, and even distance from your support network can all take a toll on your mood.

If necessary, seek professional help to learn how to better deal with and manage your emotions.

#Make a script

It is also important to have a planned itinerary. Where do you want to go? How long do you plan to stay there? What is the city structure like? Where will you stay?

Of course, you won't be going out aimlessly, right? Planning your itinerary is also an essential point, especially for safety reasons.

So, always make an itinerary for a period and keep renewing it as you get to know new places.

#ALearn other languages

If you plan to leave the country or continent right away, the ideal thing is to learn to speak English so you can communicate better and get by.

The profession already has many natural challenges, so it is important to promote actions to make things easier. Knowing how to speak another language is one of them.

Furthermore, knowing how to speak English increases your chances of getting better opportunities.

English is the most widely spoken second language in the world, so for digital nomads looking to explore the world, it is ideal to master it.

#Faça Networking

Don't isolate yourself. Create virtual roots, especially in a professional environment, get involved in groups focused on your area of expertise and also digital nomads.

Have solid contact with professionals who can help you and also be a support point for other people.

Conclusion

Starting out as a digital nomad can be very difficult at first. You need to have solid planning and prepare yourself emotionally as well.

However, if this is your dream, go after it and do everything you can to reap the rewards of your choice.

There is a huge world out there waiting for you. digital nomads determined and courageous to explore it, but without abandoning their professional career.

Finally, you might like to find out what it is hybrid work and the reasons to invest in this modality. Read the text and find out more.

HYBRID WORK ➔

Nara Sampaio February 1, 2022

Career