*Collaborative post*
There is no rigid structure to your work schedule as a digital nomad. Work from Bali.. Easy. Clock in from Canada.. Done. That said, with great geographical flexibility comes even greater responsibility. Without a routine, your business could be on shaky ground.
As a digital nomad, there’s immense pressure to maintain productivity. Here’s how digital nomads take their work anywhere while maintaining a thriving business.
1. Build a setup you can carry with you
The most crucial factor in any digital nomad’s life is their setup. What equipment is necessary for your work? Ultimately, it should be light but functional; nobody wants to lug an entire office through multiple airports and shuttles. Think foldable stands and portable laptops.
A particular non-negotiable is noise-cancelling headphones; these are a secret weapon for working from anywhere. Whether it’s a busy hostel reception or a crowded cafe, you’re guaranteed concentration.
2. Choose tools that keep you connected
Seasoned remote workers understand the importance of staying connected, and tech is the ultimate solution. VPNs, time zone converters, currency converter software, and communication tools like Slack — these all keep you on the same page as clients. By investing wisely in software and tech tools, digital nomads create a grounded system for seamless communication.
3. Use secure cloud storage for work files
If there’s one fatal mistake, it’s accidentally losing documents. As a digital nomad, the possibility of error is endless. Perhaps your luggage gets lost, the laptop falls in the pool, or worse, you’re a victim of theft. One mistake, and you risk missing a client deadline or months of work.
Fortunately, there’s an easy solution: using cloud storage to securely back up work files. With cloud storage, it doesn’t matter if you switch countries (or even devices). That flexibility can be a lifesaver.
4. Stick to a workable routine
Without a boss nearby, it’s easy to fall behind. Digital nomads must instil high levels of self-motivation, and there are lots of tried-and-tested strategies to do so. Interestingly, 58% of workers are using time blocking as a productivity tool, so that’s worth considering.
Taking regular breaks and sticking to a workable routine is key. If it’s too tempting not to dash to the beach at midday? Commit to starting at 7:30 am, then add a daily break at 12 pm until 2 pm. As long as your hours are being met, the actual routine doesn’t matter. Make it work around you.
5. Navigate Wi-Fi and location choices
There’s one golden rule: never stay somewhere with bad WiFi. Thorough research is key, as maintaining connectivity isn’t just necessary for earning money, but also for upholding professional standards. A quick scan of the property’s reviews usually suffices, and it’s worth scoping out nearby cafes or co-working spaces as emergency hotspots.
Digital nomads might embrace geographical flexibility, but they create their own structure. Discipline is key.