Digital nomadism has been steadily on the rise over the last few years, especially with the rise of remote working during the COVID pandemic, with people abandoning the classic 9-5 working model and seeking a flexible and location-independent lifestyle. Digital nomads are people who leverage technology to work remotely while at the same time they travel around and explore the world.

In contrast with remote workers, digital nomads do not stay in a specific place permanently; they travel around the world constantly, working from every corner of the world. According to a research study, 10.9 million American workers described themselves as digital nomads.

Why do People Choose to become Digital Nomads?

There is a variety of reasons why people choose digital nomadism, which can be personal, professional, lifestyle-oriented, or culture-oriented. Among other reasons, people who choose the digital nomad lifestyle is that they prefer a lifestyle that offers flexibility, adventure, and the possibility to explore the world while keeping their careers.

Flexibility and Freedom

One of the primary reasons for the increased turn in digital nomadism is the feeling of freedom and flexibility. Traditional office jobs within specific working hours have been replaced with remote work opportunities. This allows individuals to design their schedules and choose their work environment. This independence enables digital nomads to balance their work life with their personal dreams, travel, and a sense of adventure. It gives them the opportunity to break free from an inflexible work environment. Digital nomads can choose their workplace: a beach, a co-working space, or even a hotel room.

Pursuit of Adventure

Digital nomads are often driven by a desire for adventure and the excitement to explore diverse cultures and places. They think of travel as a means of personal development and a way to experience as much as possible. This pursuit of adventure allows digital nomads to break away from the monotonous and maybe flat everyday life and gain a deeper knowledge of the world.

Community and Networking

The digital nomad community is a supportive one. Various social media groups, forums, and co-living spaces are specifically addressed to digital nomads, where one can find opportunities for networking and building relationships with like-minded individuals. This sense of community encourages fellowship and facilitates the exchange of precious advice and recommendations related to travel and remote work. Also, by traveling to various destinations, digital nomads can expand their professional network and explore new collaborations.

Diverse Career Paths

Digital nomads come from a wide range of professional backgrounds. They include freelancers, remote employees, entrepreneurs, and creatives. The diversity of career paths allows individuals to find opportunities that align with their skills and interests. For example, a freelance writer can work from a beachside café in an exotic place, while a software developer can collaborate with a global team from a co-working space in Europe.

Cost of Living

Many digital nomads take advantage of the cost of living arbitrage by choosing to work in locations with lower living costs while earning income from high-paying markets. This financial strategy enables them to enjoy a higher standard of living, save money, and extend their travels. It also contributes to the popularity of digital nomadism as an economically viable lifestyle.

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