Working as a digital nomad sounds like freedom, sun and a laptop on the beach - but getting there isn't always that easy. If you want to work remotely, you need to consider more than just good Wi-Fi. In this article, you'll find out the 10 most important aspects that will help you avoid typical mistakes and get your digital nomad life off to a successful start. Whether you are a freelancer, coach or content creator - these tips will make it easier for you to start working as a digital nomad.
Create clear structures and routines
Even if working as a freelancer abroad promises maximum freedom, this freedom is often the biggest challenge. Without fixed working hours, a regular daily routine or clear to-do's, your productivity level can quickly melt away under the tropical sun.
Routine and structure when working on the move
A fixed morning routine, clearly defined work blocks and regular breaks help you to stay focused - regardless of whether you are sitting in a co-working space in Mexico or on the beach in Thailand.
The more structure you can bring to your everyday life, the easier it will be for you to complete professional tasks and still have time for what makes life as a digital nomad so special: discovering new places, meeting exciting people and working creatively.
Setting off without a financial cushion is not good...
As tempting as the spontaneous departure may sound, a financial cushion is essential when working as a digital nomad. Particularly in the early days, income can fluctuate or unplanned expenses can arise, such as for technology, flights or healthcare costs abroad.
Plan at least 3 to 6 months of living costs before you start. This way you stay flexible and don't come under pressure straight away - because real freedom only comes when you can afford it.
It is reassuring to invest in reliable technology.
Laptop, headphones, power bank, mobile internet - your equipment is your livelihood when working as a digital nomad. It is therefore worth saving money here. Look for lightweight, powerful devices with a long battery life and robust design. It also helps to use original products from major brands that are available to buy in many countries, making it easier to get replacements, repairs or compatible accessories, which you can also borrow locally if necessary. (e.g. Nikon cameras with various lenses)
Equally important: cloud backups and VPN access to protect your data. If you want to work efficiently on the move, you need technology you can rely on - whether you're in the big city or the jungle.
Don't: Misjudge time differences
If your customers or your team work in a different time zone, this can quickly lead to stress and misunderstandings. Good time management is essential when working as a digital nomad - especially if you are working with people in Europe or the USA while traveling in Asia.
What you should bear in mind with the remote work lifestyle:
Tip: Use tools such as World Time Buddy or Google Calendar with time zone function to clearly communicate availability and meet deadlines.
Plan a fixed place of work.
As nice as the thought of a laptop on the beach is - in reality, concentrated work works best in a quiet environment with stable internet.
Co-working spaces, cafés with a good reputation or a quiet Airbnb apartment with a desk are the better choice.
When working as a digital nomad, you need places where you can be focused, professional and productive - and that rarely works with sand in your keyboard.
Don't neglect your social contacts
Traveling alone can be liberating - but also lonely. When working as a digital nomad, you often spend a lot of time with yourself and your laptop. However, if you live permanently without a real social environment, you risk isolation and loss of motivation.
Visit local meetups, co-working events or use platforms such as Nomad List or Meetup.com to meet like-minded people. The exchange with other digital nomads not only brings new friends, but often also valuable business contacts.
Pay attention to a healthy lifestyle
Too little sleep, irregular eating, too much coffee and no exercise - these can quickly become the norm when you're on the move. But especially when working as a digital nomad, it is important to listen to your body and do something good for it.
Plan exercise into your day, make sure you eat fresh, local food and find routines that will keep you going - be it yoga, journaling or a sunrise walk.
Plan for unforeseeable events as far as possible:
Also find out about the necessary insurance policies and their cover and scope abroad. Accident and health insurance is particularly important. If possible, clarify questions about repatriation and any problems that could arise in the worst-case scenario in advance.
Important: Do not ignore visa regulations and taxes!
A typical beginner's mistake: you just go ahead and travel without finding out about visas, work permits or tax obligations. But laws also apply when working as a digital nomad - and ignorance is no defense against punishment.
Inform yourself thoroughly about visa regulations in your destination country and get support with tax issues at an early stage, e.g. from a tax consultant specializing in digital nomads.
Pro tip for all those who want to work abroad:
A great website with lots of interesting information about working as a digital nomad and living abroad is Christoph Heuermann's website: Staatenlos.ch
Always keep your customer relationships professional.
You may be in Bali, your client may be in Berlin - but they still want results on time, quick responses and a professional approach. When working as a digital nomad, reliability is even more important than in traditional jobs.
Meet deadlines, reply to messages promptly and proactively inform your customers about travel plans, availability and possible delays. Trust is your most valuable asset.
Don't do everything at once.
Traveling, working, building an online business on the side, posting content, learning new skills - many digital nomads take on too much at first. But sustainable success requires focus.
Start with clear priorities. You don't have to do everything at once. Growing step by step is often more successful than a big leap with a belly landing.
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Conclusion: Working as a digital nomad - with a plan instead of chaos
Working as a digital nomad is a dream that many people want to live - and it can come true for you too. With a clear plan, healthy routines, reliable technology and the right mindset, you can lay the foundations for a fulfilling, location-independent life.
Use the do's and don'ts in this article as a guide to avoid common mistakes and get off to a smart start right from the start.
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