Not much good came from 2020, but the only thing we do have to be thankful for is the increased number of remote work opportunities. Remote employed work and freelance work, as well as information on how to find those jobs, is much easier to find now. There's been a huge surge in the number of digital nomads as well as countries latching onto this increase, with several countries offering some form of digital nomad visa.
I've been a freelancer for most of my working life and, while I do have a base in the UK, I have spent time working from my laptop while abroad many times over the years. If you're on the path to becoming a digital nomad, there are several things you can do to help you prepare for life as a digital nomad.
Learn Another language
As English speakers we're very privileged that a lot of non-English speakers have learned English as a second language. While this makes it easier to communicate while travelling not everyone speaks English, and you'll get a lot more out of your experience if you can communicate in the local language. I speak Spanish (not fluently, but I can hold a conversation). I find that speaking to someone in their own language brings a greater sense of connection; the person you're speaking to knows the work you've put in and will probably appreciate the effort, even if you make mistakes. You don't have to be fluent, but it's helpful to have at least some of a second language to fall back on.
It's also good to learn a few words of the local language wherever you visit - being able to say hello, please and thank you in the local language is such a small thing to learn but is usually appreciated, and it shows you respect the locals and their culture.
Study Your Craft and Invest in Yourself
Finding remote work can be relatively easy, depending on your skillset and chosen career path, but what really sets you apart is being an expert at what you do and being willing to invest in yourself. Learn the tools of the trade and be willing to invest in them to give your clients the best experience. For example, if you're a digital marketer you can use Press Plugs to target the best journalists to contact for a story, or invest in click fraud protection if your focus is on paid advertising.
Volunteer as You Travel
Volunteering as you make your way around the world is a wonderful way to get to know people in the local community and contribute to worthwhile causes.
There are so many volunteer opportunities out there - you could take part in a language exchange, help to build schools, clean up beaches or even volunteer at an animal shelter. As well as putting some good out into the world, you can also open yourself up to unique money-can't-buy experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Being a digital nomad can be challenging at times. You will face set backs at times, whether that's a contract ending, getting sick or feeling homesick, being a remote worker isn't all sunshine and rainbows. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it. Take time to appreciate your surroundings and care for yourself as well as your customers.
Good luck!
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