Now, more than ever, people are ditching the confinements of a 9 to 5 office job in exchange for a nomadic lifestyle. As the recent global pandemic encouraged people to make the most of life, the idea of earning a living while travelling the world seems more fitting. Although becoming a digital nomad has its advantages, anyone considering this lifestyle must weigh the pros and cons before taking a leap.
The psychological impact
When you think about being a digital nomad, you likely think about sitting on a warm sandy beach with your laptop as you complete assignments and connect with coworkers and clients. However, the life of a nomad is a lot more complicated, particularly when it comes to mental health. Below is a look at some of the effects being a digital nomad can have on your mental wellness.
- Financial Stress – Most digital nomads earn a living by working for themselves, running a small business, or completing odd and end tasks as side gigs. Unlike a traditional job where you receive a paycheck, your earnings can vary from one week to the next. Trying to secure the funds to cover your travel and living expenses can sometimes lead to chronic stress.
- Anxiety – If you’re a creature of habit, the instability of a nomadic lifestyle could cause some anxiety. You’re frequently travelling from one destination to the next, often changing environments and time zones, making it hard to develop routines that keep you grounded.
- Loneliness/Depression – While you can meet many great people during your travels, there’s nothing like the comfort of connecting with friends and family. Unfortunately, as a digital nomad, quality time with loved ones is often reduced. Not having someone around that knows and cares for you can get pretty lonely and even lead to depression.
Mental health solutions
Being aware of the potential mental health challenges digital nomads face doesn’t mean you should give up your dreams. It enables you to take the necessary precautions to keep your emotional health intact. Below are some suggestions that can help make your nomadic experience more enjoyable.
- Stick To A Budget – You can keep financial stress to a minimum by sticking to a realistic budget. Before you jump into this lifestyle, sit down and determine how much you’ll need to make to cover your needs at home and on the road. Set limits on each spending category to ensure you don’t stretch yourself too thin.
- Emergency Savings – Another way to relieve financial stress is to have a nest egg you can turn to during weeks or months when your earnings don’t cover your expenses.
- Multiple Income Streams – As the saying goes, you should never put all of your eggs in one basket. Whether you work for yourself or have an employer, you should always have at least one or two other income streams. Some popular options for digital nomads include blogging, freelance writing, virtual assistance, and house sitting.
- Relocate Less Often – If you function best with routines and structure, moving less frequently can help ease your anxiety. As you map out your travel destinations, plan to stay in one location for at least a month. That way, you can develop a schedule and routine that won’t leave you feeling out of control.
- Stay Connected To Loved Ones – Thanks to modern advancements, you can stay in touch with your friends and family no matter where you are. Check-in on social media, send emails, make phone calls, or use video conferencing apps for a more personal connection. You can share your experiences through conversations, photographs, and videos or engage in activities like playing online games or streaming television shows and movies for entertainment.
- Seek Professional Help If Needed – Does depression make you tired? Is your anxiety taking control? Perhaps your financial burdens have caused you to overwork yourself and burn out. If you notice physical or mental changes that don’t pass with time or practical solutions, you may need professional help. You can join an online support group or attend virtual therapy sessions to help you find healthy ways to cope with your emotional health.
If you’re tired of being confined by the hustle and bustle of the traditional 9 to 5 job, a nomadic lifestyle could be the answer to your problems. Working remotely enables you to travel the world, meet new people, try new things, and still earn a living to support your needs. As you consider this lifestyle, remember to use the above advice to help overcome some common mental health challenges. Although there will still be some obstacles along the way, incorporating these practices into your everyday life can ensure your experience is much more pleasant.