In the age of technology, working online is becoming more and more accessible across the world. With this newfound access, there has also been an increase in job opportunities for individuals who want to work online, otherwise known as digital nomads. As this title is becoming easier to claim, it’s critical to acknowledge the hurdles one must face in order to go down this common route.
Find your passion and build your profile
Freelance writer? Customer service? Are you automatically stumped when thinking about what you would want to pursue as a digital nomad? Take the time to research what jobs are available, particularly in the career path you wish to embark upon. If you are still stumped, write down a list of what you find yourself happy with when you are working. What previous jobs have you held? What satisfies you? Websites like Fiverr or Upwork offer online-based freelance work, if you want to pursue short-term projects for nearly anything from voice acting to artwork. By regularly using these websites and building a portfolio, you’ll be surprised by how quickly an impressive resume builds. You’ll not only get the freedom of online access to jobs related to your dream career, but you’ll be able to explore what you are passionate about without the damaging cost of contracts.
Become a professional with your technology
Acquainting yourself with the technology you’ll be using will not only increase your ability to properly fulfill your duties as a digital nomad, but also allow you to be more successful in the digital age. Have you ever found yourself staring at the top row of keys on a keyboard and wondering what they are for? Or what typing shortcuts are available on your phone, or how they will help you get work done faster? Ask questions and get answers. Taking the time to become a professional will allow you to save precious time that you could use for perfecting your craft.
Set up a work space (both mentally and physically)
Now you’ve got the job. While your primary reason for pursuing a digital career may be the ability to explore the world from wherever you like, you’ll still need to create a workspace which may be mental or physical. Mentally, you’ll need to find a way to set aside time for work. This may be triggered by a certain type of space or location. You don’t need a fancy desk to create a work space, but forming a mental picture of what you want to accomplish and when you want to accomplish it will create a work space you can access from anywhere. Find out what works for you. This can include creating a test week where you work during the morning, afternoon, and night with a variety of unique variables in order to find out when and where you are most productive.
Create goals
What do you want to get out of being a digital nomad? Do you want to be able to explore the world while making some level of income? Your career path is in your hands: you can choose when and how you work. However, you are ultimately your own boss. You decide where you get, and how you get there. Invest in a planner to make decisions on a daily basis, and set goals as to what to accomplish. Anything is possible with the proper organization!
