5 Things Nobody Tells You About Being a Digital Nomad

1. You’re going to get distracted.

You will begin this lifestyle with the noblest of intentions. Waking up at 9AM, going to the coffee shop to get some work done, creating a nice balance of work and play. But then…
You’re going to get that invite to the Jungle Trek. Or that music festival. Or that 3 day bootcamp. You’re going to be meeting wonderful and inspiring people who are making money in ways you’ve never heard of. You’re going to want to see everything, do everything, learn everything, and soak it all up. Suddenly, the solitary work sesh doesn’t seem so appealing.

2. No solid habits = flailing

All humans have the conflicting dual need for consistency and novelty. But sometimes, the digital nomad life can skew on to much variety, overstimulating the brain with novelty and making real productivity a challenge. Establishing daily habits is CRITICAL. Developing a morning routine, creating rituals, taking care of yourself. Creating anchors of consistency to cling to when everything else in your world is changing.

3. You’ll have nobody to blame but yourself for any problems

In the regular world, there’s quite a few people you can blame your troubles on. A boss, coworkers, family members, a partner, the government, etc. On your own though, you’re the captain of your ship. You’re solely responsible for your financial health, career choices, travel logistics, emotional well being, happiness, and more. With great freedom comes great responsibility.

4. You’ll feel like you exist in another dimension

As a Digital Nomad, you’re not living a “normal” existence. You’re on the fringes of society, outside of your country’s borders, not claimed by anyone or anywhere. While your friends back home settle down into the slow life, you’ve chosen an alternate path. Nothing in your life is certain or stable, but that’s what makes it such an intoxicating lifestyle. Fully alive, always exploring.

5. You’ll get lonely

There’s no escaping the fact that humans are social creatures though. Being a solo digital nomad is actually quite dangerous for mental health. Being alone in a country several thousand miles of home with no familiar faces or physical support, is TOUGH. Without support, it makes you less resilient to challenges and it can take longer to bounce back from curveballs like getting sick, heartbreak, immigration issues, car accident, etc. Historically, nomadic tribes have traveled together, and this makes a lot of sense. We are simply not designed to go through this world entirely alone, it’s not healthy or sustainable.

Despite these 5 things , I’m happy and grateful to have chosen this lifestyle. It’s brought me face to face with some demons, stimulated intense personal growth/self reflection, and made me realize the value in things I formerly took for granted- like a routine & a strong support system.