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The Digital Nomad Life: A Guide to Working and Traveling Remotely

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

Introduction The digital nomad lifestyle has become increasingly popular in recent years. With more jobs allowing for remote work and the rise of freelancing and online businesses, many people break free from traditional office life and take their work on the road. For some, it’s about the ability to travel and have new experiences. For others, it’s to escape the high cost of living areas and make their income stretch further. Becoming a digital nomad takes careful planning but can lead to a fulfilling life of work and adventure. This guide covers the key steps to transition into the location-independent, digital nomad lifestyle. Jobs For Digital Nomads The essential element for this lifestyle is having a remote job or online business that provides enough income.

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Some of the most common digital nomad jobs include:

  • Freelance writing and content creation
  • Web and software development
  • Online tutoring and teaching
  • Affiliate marketing
  • Dropshipping
  • Social media management
  • Virtual assistant services
  • Data entry and administrative roles

Many digital nomads gather income from multiple online sources, like freelance work, passive income, and side businesses. Building diverse income streams allows for a more stable and robust digital nomad life. Choosing a Remote Job and Convincing Your Employer For those transitioning from an office job, negotiating a remote work arrangement with your current employer is one route to nomadism. Present a plan for successfully working outside the office without disruption. Outline the collaborative tools and schedule you will use to stay connected to colleagues and be accountable. Highlight the many benefits studies show for remote employee productivity and work-life balance. With COVID-19 work-from-home mandates, many employers are now more accustomed to and comfortable with off-site employees. If your current job can’t be done remotely, start researching and applying for flexible online jobs months before departure. Having an income stream secured will make the transition much smoother. Establishing a Schedule and Work Routine Finding balance is one of the biggest struggles in learning how to live and work remotely. Days can easily blend together without the set hours and environment an office provides. Set regular work hours for yourself and create a daily routine. Try working from cafes or co-working spaces, so you have some separation between “home” and “work”. Schedule regular times for exercise, social activities, and exploring your surroundings. Adding structure to protect your free time and ensure you are working enough. Being your boss gives flexibility but also requires discipline. Experiment to find a schedule that optimizes your productivity and happiness. Choosing Where to Go Part of the appeal of location independence is that you can temporarily base yourself wherever you want. When selecting where to go as a digital nomad, consider the following:

  • Cost of living – Find places where your income will stretch the furthest. Sites like Nomadlist help compare.
  • Time zone – Minimize time zone differences if you work for companies based elsewhere.
  • Language – While some cities have thriving expat communities, try learning basic phrases in the local language. Being able to order food or get directions will dramatically improve your experience.
  • Safety – Research if the area is generally secure for travelers.
  • Infrastructure – Ensure reliable internet and electricity so you can get work done.
  • Activities – Having beautiful nature, historic sites, and a cultured food scene will make your time there more enjoyable.

Popular digital nomad destinations include Chiang Mai, Medellin, Lisbon, and Madrid for their ideal combination of low costs, friendly lifestyles, and robust infrastructure. But you can base yourself anywhere that fits your budget, interests, and work hours. Staying Connected While you’ll meet fellow travelers and locals, one challenge of extended remote work is maintaining friendships back home. Schedule regular video calls to catch up and feel connected. Co-working spaces also provide networking opportunities with others leading similar lifestyles. Consider periodically overlapping trips with friends, having visitors, or returning to your home base. Travel is fantastic, but so are the people in your life. Making an effort to nurture relationships will ensure your nomad experience feels well-rounded. Traveling Long-Term Deciding how long to remain in each place depends on your interests and visa requirements. Spend at least a month in each spot to experience daily life there. But also factor in tourist and digital nomad visa rules, which may restrict you to 60 or 90 days per country. Consider alternating periods of slower travel with remaining in “home bases” for a few months, where you can settle in more. This allows time to build a local community and take regional side trips. While traveling indefinitely sounds idyllic, long-term nomadism also has downsides like instability and loneliness. Check-in periodically on if this lifestyle still aligns with your goals and happiness. Remain open to shifting plans if needed. Being a digital nomad gives fantastic freedom. But crafting a life of work and travel requires effort and mindfulness. Follow this guide to turn the digital nomad dream into an enriching and sustainable lifestyle reality.  

Guide to Becoming a Digital Nomad

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

A Guide to Becoming a Successful Digital Nomad

In today’s interconnected world, the concept of work has undergone a remarkable transformation. The rise of technology and remote work opportunities has given birth to a new breed of professionals known as digital nomads. These adventurous individuals have embraced the freedom to work from anywhere worldwide, combining their passion for travel with a fulfilling career. If you aspire to become a successful digital nomad, this article will guide you toward a lifestyle that offers flexibility and personal growth.

  1. Embrace Remote Work Opportunities

The first step towards achieving digital nomad success is finding a job or building a career that allows remote work. This may involve seeking out companies that offer flexible work arrangements or freelancing in your area of expertise. Remote job boards, online platforms, and networking communities can be excellent resources for finding hidden work opportunities. It’s essential to ensure that your skill set aligns with the demands of the small job market, as this will enhance your chances of success.

  • Cultivate a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is essential for thriving as a digital nomad. Embrace a mindset that views challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth. Be open to learning new skills, adapting to different cultures, and embracing diverse perspectives. The ability to continually learn and evolve will set you apart from the crowd and allow you to maximize your potential as a digital nomad.

  • Establish a Solid Online Presence

As a digital nomad, your online presence becomes your professional identity. Create a solid online brand by building a captivating portfolio, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, and maintaining an active presence on relevant social media platforms. Cultivate a network of like-minded individuals, potential clients, and mentors who can support and guide your journey.

  • Master Time Management

The freedom to work from anywhere comes with managing your time effectively. Establish a routine that aligns with your personal preferences and productivity patterns. Set clear boundaries between work and personal life, and ensure you dedicate focused time to complete tasks efficiently. Utilize productivity tools, such as time trackers, project management software, and task management apps, to optimize your workflow and meet deadlines consistently.

  • Prioritize Work-Life Balance

One of the most significant advantages of being a digital nomad is the ability to design a lifestyle that prioritizes work-life balance. Engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, and time in nature, to maintain your physical and mental well-being. Remember to allocate time for exploring new destinations, immersing yourself in local cultures, and nurturing personal relationships. Striking a harmonious balance between work and leisure will contribute to your long-term success as a digital nomad.

  • Adaptability and Resilience

Flexibility and adaptability are critical traits for thriving in the digital nomad lifestyle. Embrace the challenges of working in different environments, adapting to varying time zones, and navigating cultural differences. Develop resilience in the face of setbacks or unforeseen circumstances, as they are inevitable during your journey. Embracing change and finding innovative solutions will empower you to overcome obstacles and succeed as a digital nomad.

  • Financial Planning and Security

While the digital nomad lifestyle can be enriching, it is crucial to establish a solid financial foundation. Create a budget, set aside savings, and invest wisely to ensure a stable financial future. Research the cost of living in potential destinations and consider healthcare, travel insurance, and retirement planning. Building financial security will provide peace of mind and enable you to focus on your professional and personal growth.

Becoming a successful digital nomad is an exciting journey that offers unparalleled freedom and personal growth. By embracing remote work opportunities,

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Planning for a Digital Nomad Lifestyle

The digital nomad lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular as more and more people are looking for ways to work remotely and travel the world. If you’re considering becoming a digital nomad, there are a few things you need to do to plan for your new lifestyle.

1. Choose a career that can be done remotely

The first step is to choose a career that can be done remotely. Many jobs, such as freelance writing, graphic design, web development, and marketing, can be done from anywhere. If you need help determining what kind of job you want, many resources are available to help you find a remote position.

2. Research different destinations

Once you’ve chosen a career, you must start researching different destinations. There are many factors to consider when selecting a goal, such as the cost of living, the climate, the availability of internet access, and the visa requirements. Many websites and blogs can help you research different destinations.

3. Set a budget

It’s essential to set a budget before you start traveling. This will help you stay on track financially and avoid overspending. There are many different ways to budget for travel, so find a method that works for you.

4. Get the right gear

Every digital nomad should have a few pieces of equipment, such as a laptop, a good camera, and a portable hard drive. You may also want to invest in a travel router, a power bank, and a noise-canceling headset.

5. Make sure you have the right insurance

It’s essential to ensure you have the right insurance before traveling. This includes health insurance, travel insurance, and liability insurance. Many insurance companies offer digital nomad policies, so shop around and compare rates.

6. Stay connected

It’s essential to stay connected with your friends, family, and colleagues while traveling. This can be done through social media, email, and video chat. Many apps can help you stay connected while you’re on the go.

7. Be flexible

Being flexible is one of the most important things to remember when you’re a digital nomad. Things don’t always go according to plan, so rolling with the punches is essential. This means being prepared to change your dreams at a moment’s notice and adapting to new situations.

8. Enjoy the journey

The digital nomad lifestyle is all about adventure and exploration. Soak up the experiences, meet new people, and maximize your time on the road.

Becoming a digital nomad is a great way to see the world and work from anywhere. However, researching and planning is essential before you leap. Following these tips can increase your chances of success as a digital nomad.

Starting Your Business

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

Starting a business can be daunting and fear-inducing, but there are steps you can take to overcome your fear and take the first step toward entrepreneurship. Here are some tips that can help:

  1. Identify the source of your fear: Take some time to reflect on what is causing you to feel fearful about starting your business. For example, are you afraid of failure, financial insecurity, or the unknown? Once you have identified the source of your fear, you can begin to address it head-on.
  2. Focus on your vision and passion: What is your idea for your business? What drives you to want to start this venture? Keeping your eye and love in mind can help you stay motivated and overcome any fears or obstacles that may arise.
  3. Create a plan: Develop a business plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections. This will help you feel more confident and prepared as you move forward.
  4. Seek support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues who can encourage and guide you. In addition, consider hiring a business coach or consultant who can provide expert advice and help you navigate the challenges of starting a business.
  5. Start small: It’s okay to grow your business gradually. You don’t have to have everything figured out from the start. Instead, take small steps and learn as you go.

Fear is a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey but shouldn’t hold you back from pursuing your dreams. You can overcome your fears and start your business with a clear vision, a solid plan, and a supportive network.

woman sitting on stairs while using laptop
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Here are a few more tips that may help you overcome your fear and start your business:

  • Do your research: Before you start your business, do thorough research on your market, competition, and target audience. This will help you identify gaps or opportunities and refine your business strategy accordingly.
  • Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks: Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks can help you stay focused and make progress.
  • Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Failure is a natural part of entrepreneurship, and embracing it as a learning opportunity is essential. Use your failures as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and improve your approach.
  • Practice self-care: Starting a business can be stressful and demanding, and taking care of yourself is essential. Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation to help reduce stress and stay focused.
  • Celebrate your successes: Celebrate your milestones and successes, no matter how small they may seem. This will help you stay motivated and build momentum as you move forward.

Remember that starting a business takes courage but can also be incredibly rewarding. By taking small steps, seeking support, and staying focused on your vision and goals, you can confidently overcome your fear and start your business.

Are You Working Your Gift

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

Class gets yourself a scratch pad and pen. No, seriously, get a paper and pen!

In the next few questions, I want you to write down the answers to the questions posed. The test is you all will pass.

Take time to answer the 3 questions. Then when you’ve responded to them add one more section to your answer, WHY?

  1. When the alarm clock goes off, are you excited?
  2. Do you love your job? 
  3. Does your life have meaning for YOU? 

The vast majority of us will answer, “hell no, I have when the alarm clock goes off.” Why?

You are NOT living your gift!

happy, self improvement, spiritual

 

God has something for each of us. A gift.

Everyone has something that wakes them up before the alarm goes off. You love your job because, to you, it’s not a job. If you are living God’s gift, absolutely life has meaning.

Life has no flavor, no scent for you to smell. You get up and go to some job, have an idiot for a boss, and life appears to be sleep, work, and repeat.

Are you ready to find God’s real purpose for your life?

Step-by-step:

  1. Find a place where you feel at peace. Lakeside, river, fountain, park, mountains, but find a spot where you can be at peace. 
  2. Begin to talk to God. Ask him for the wisdom and vision to see your life’s purpose. What gift that God wants you to share with the world. You may already have an idea. Embrace the thought, make it yours in your mind. 
  3. If needed, keep coming to this place until it comes to you. When God is ready for you to know, if you’re like me, he will hit you over the head with it, so you don’t miss. 
  4. When you have an idea. Write it down. As clearly and concisely as you are able. 

Be open-minded and, most importantly, have patience.

Big question:

How am I going to begin, this is where the “I don’t have ________.” will destroy your dream. 

If God can bring the Universe into existence, I am pretty sure he can bring your life’s purpose to fruition. Since he put it in your head, don’t you imagine he has a plan to finish?

You may have to pray, “God, I don’t see a way for this to ever occur. I leave this in your hands to guide my way.” Then stay in faith! Do the work no matter how small or insignificant you may think forward motion is. It’s still forward motion.

You can always find something to do that moves you one step closer to your dream.

One time in your life. Give yourself the gift of running all the way with God. You will get knocked down, run over, feel as though one more step will be your last (metaphorically speaking), yet you take one more step.

Stop now and go to God and let him know you are ready!

Questions or share your dream, I would love to hear:

Faith or Give Up

/ Robert Bruton / Leave a comment

What happens when you stay in faith even amid ruin? I can actually answer that!

Last month was shaping up to be brutal income wise. Negativity, in my own mind, was snowballing to the point I was in a very dark place. My day job is sales, and we no longer get commission vouchers to know where we are during the month with no real way to track. Not the fairest method to manage sales people “not my monkey not my circus.”

Handed deal after deal saying credit was not sufficient to purchase. Yet no notes that the company even tried beyond sending it in. Finance you have to walk on more difficult credit customers. Since this was my job for the last 25 plus years of my career. Particularly hard for me when I know some could be deals.

hope, prayer, freedom

Letting all this get to me it clouded my brain. Frustration took over.

Somehow through all of this, I mustered up the courage to continue to let God know that I was still here. Over-and-over I would say, “God has me.” Staring a mountain of debt in the face each month is tedious.

During the month, I would take time to just let God know I don’t see a way, so please make a way. I freely admit most of the time, I was really stressing out. Somehow though I was able to show God that it might only be a mustard seed of faith, I have hope.

Finally arrived pay-day. Contemplated how I would survive the month, what was I going to lose, on-and-on. Had asked God many times to please show me he is with me, that I don’t want to be in this dark hole.

My friend, who works in accounting stopped in my office to hand me my paycheck. As I sat in my chair, bracing myself for the worst. Opening the envelope to immediately look at the dollar amount. I had to stare at it for a moment to realize it was so much more than I imagined it would be. “Oh, my” and I began to cry.

Not only could I meet the obligations, but I also have enough left to pay extra. Not any other time in my life did I feel so humbled.

Keep in mind we are not privy to our income. Sales commissions can range from $100 to thousands, but we have no real way to know. So opening your paycheck is literally like seeing a lottery ticket. It may win big or may not win at all.

The point to all of this is, stay in faith. Even when you cannot see a way, a way is being made if you let God know, do the work you need to every day. I admit honestly if giving myself a grade, it would be a D-, yet as the bible says:

Matthew 17:20 King James Version (KJV)

20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; it shall remove; nothing shall be impossible unto you.

We all struggle through tough moments, and it is very hard not to lose faith and hope. For many years in my life, something like this last month, I would have thrown in the towel long before God could provide a miracle.

You just have to talk to God.

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