New technology and changing work habits have opened up a new world of opportunity. Today we are able to choose from a range of options that enable many of us to work from wherever we want, whenever we want, and with whomever we want.
With all of these exciting changes in the workforce comes some confusion about the people who take advantage of this opportunity.
Specifically, many people don’t understand what it means to be a digital nomad or what it takes to become one. As a result, digital nomads have been subject to several unfair myths.
Whether you’re living the nomad lifestyle already or just are curious, read on for 7 common stereotypes about digital nomads and why they aren’t true.
Digital Nomads Are On An Endless Holiday
Photo by Atlas Green on Unsplash
This is the most common misconception about digital nomads. I often get comments like: “How can you afford to travel all the time?”, “Enjoy your holiday in Brazil!”, “Are you always on holiday?!” etc. This has even happened after we have spoken about what I do for a living. 😅
People see nomads at the beach or drinking margaritas and assume that they are just sitting around doing nothing.
The truth is that many digital nomads work hard, they just aren’t tied to a specific location.
While I set deadlines with my clients, I create my own schedule. Often, I like to wake up early and finish work so I can go out and explore in the afternoon or do something in the evening. Sometimes I feel like working the whole day – for days. Other times I feel like having a day off – or several. If I just plan for it, I can. I also take things like when I’m most productive, weather, visits, location, etc. into consideration.
I get my work done but don’t think it needs to happen between 9-5 every day. I don’t think so much about what day of the week it is. In my case, it is true that a regular Tuesday can be as good as someone’s holiday. Some other nomads have a more fixed schedule and prefer it that way.
If you run your own business, you’re often more flexible with your vacation time as well. When you enjoy what you do it’s easy to end up working a lot. Not taking proper time off when you’re based in paradise places is likely a bigger problem for most nomads rather than not working “enough”.
Working From A Laptop IS Your Job
Photo by Cleo Vermij on Unsplash
“I also want to work from my laptop!”
While you can do many jobs from a laptop, working from a laptop isn’t a job in itself.
I’ve met many different people who seem to be willing to do whatever it takes to “start working from a laptop”. You can do all kinds of jobs from your laptop – but it requires more skills than being able to sit in front of one.
If you’re interested in a more flexible lifestyle – ask yourself how you could perform your job or start something else that would add value to other peoples’ lifes – independent of location. The people you see who are living the nomad lifestyle are likely doing more than just “traveling with a laptop”.
The Digital Nomad Lifestyle Is Only Possible For Certain Professions
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Many people assume that the digital nomad lifestyle is only available to a select group of professions. “I could never do that with my job!” is a typical comment.
While there are certainly some professions that are more suitabe to this type of lifestyle, there are plenty of other professions that are just as easy to carry out remotely.
For instance, digital nomads often work in programming, web design, marketing, writing, and accounting. But many people also work remotely as doctors, nurses, teachers, and therapists. The key is to find a career path that isn’t location-dependent.
More professions belong to this list than most people imagine!
You Can’t Earn As Well As A Digital Nomad As You Would In A Traditional Job
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
The truth is that many people make more money as digital nomads than they would in a traditional job. The pandemic has naturally pushed the acceptance-rate of remote work to new highs. Now big brands like Google, Facebook, and Spotify all offer remote opportunities with the same pay. Research has proven that productivity and employee satisfaction have increased with remote work, so why shouldn’t they?
Many online entrepreneurs have also built up several income streams that allow them to earn millions of dollars. There are also many examples of people struggling to make ends meet.
To succeed, you need to put in the work. If you do, it’s possible to earn the same and much more as you would in a traditional job, while enjoying the nomad lifestyle.
Digital Nomads Aren’t Career Driven
This is another misconception. In fact, digital nomads are often extremely career driven. They just have a different idea of what constitutes a career than most people do.
Instead of getting a job in one industry and moving through the ranks until it’s time to retire, many nomads look at their life from a more holistic perspective. Several strive to make an impact and develop professionally and personally. They have learned that you can do so in different ways, and enjoy life at the same time.
The nomad lifestyle isn’t suitable if you aren’t able to focus and stay disciplined since you won’t be able to maintain it long-term. Many digital nomads are also entrepreneurs and well-aware that things won’t happen if they don’t make them happen.
We are often as career-driven as other professionals. We just have a different idea of what a successful career means.
Digital Nomads Can’t Have A Family
The reality is quite the opposite.
Many digital nomads have more time to develop a relationship with their family than they would if they were working in a traditional job.
While most people have to go to work at 9 AM and leave at 5 PM every single day, a digital nomad might have more flexible hours where they can spend more time with their family. This also gives them more time to pursue other interests.
A common concern is whether you can travel with kids. There are many examples of nomad families that travel. Personally, I see it as a great opportunity for kids to learn more about the world and life.
You naturally have to adjust to whatever fits your family. Such as slowing down or traveling in seasons etc. If there is a will, there is a way. 😉
Being a Digital Nomad Is Only for Young People
I’ve met nomads of all ages – and statistics confirm the same.
Digital nomad is a broad term that includes all kinds of people. What it really translates to is the freedom to work from wherever you want. Whether that’s your hometown, an exotic beach in Bali, or New York, is up to you!
I travel a lot and my lifestyle would probably be a bit too intense for both my mum and my grandmum. My way is not a recipe for how it should be done. You can stay for as long as you wish in each location and design your lifestyle in a way that fits your preferences and energy level. Experiment and find out what works for you.
If you’re interested in this lifestyle, it’s never too late.
Don’t Let Stereotypes Hold You Back
Being a digital nomad can be an amazing way to live, it just isn’t suitable for everyone.
There are a lot of misconceptions about digital nomads. If you are interested in becoming one, don’t let these myths hold you back. Instead, focus on all of the great things that this lifestyle enables – like flexibility, freedom, life lessons, and unfortgettable experiences.
Questions, thoughts, or would you like to add something to the list? Let me know in the comments!
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