Pretty ProgressiveDigital nomadism is a rewarding lifestyle as more and more people are discovering. With an increasing number of countries devising special visas for remote workers, there are really numerous options out there.
Some digital nomads prefer to keep traveling while others rely on the expat lifestyle with occasional ventures into other locations. No matter which type you are, there are some universalities to observe and practices to consider.
Let’s take a look at them.
Filing Expat Taxes
Taxes are one thing that digital nomads research early on before deciding on their starting location. Many countries are offering lucrative incentives — including tax breaks, to attract remote workers to the country.
As a result, digital nomad taxes vary greatly from country to country. You should perform a thorough research so as to not be caught unawares later on.
Life Insurance and Other Safety Nets
Insurance policies can be tricky to pick given the slew of options, However, it is fair to say that people are nowadays considering life insurance policies at a younger age for various reasons.
For digital nomads, this is a crucial step, as traveling through unfamiliar countries can be somewhat difficult should something unexpected happen.
How to choose life insurance?
There are different options available. While there is no one-size-fits-all policy, everyone should be able to find a perfect option, especially since insurance companies are coming up with new solutions for digital nomads.
The trend is on the rise, which means more and more options will become available in the near future.
Simply compare offers and pick the best option for your specific circumstances.
Relying on SOPs
People new to digital nomadism should learn the ropes. The best way to get started is to set up your own SOPs (standard operating procedures).
An SOP is a document detailing step-by-step instructions to guide you in how to perform a repetitive process, helping you get each and every task done as efficiently as possible.
Generally speaking, an SOP document should include the following information:
- Provide clear goals
- Detail deadlines
- Reduce chances for errors
- Ensure compliance
- Ensure consistency
- Result in a consistent and quality service
- Detail how to increase profits
The easiest way to set up your SOPs is by creating a template that describes the methods for completing a variety of tasks.
Incorporating OKRs
Next on, it is essential that digital nomads set targeted goals. A good way to do this is to rely on the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) methodology that focuses on objectives by defining a set of key results.
Not just any key results will do, however. In order for them to be efficient, they should be realistic, measurable, moderate in number and have set deadlines.
Understanding OKRs is crucial for long-term success. They can be defined as detailed and proven initiatives resulting from strategic thinking capable of making changes happen fast.
For best results, OKRs should be tracked in real-time. They should be adjusted as needed to ensure the change is taking place.
Continuing to Learn
Digital nomads are tech-savvy people who know how competitive the market can be. Not only are they used to aligning their methods with gig economy trends, but they also fully understand the importance of continual learning.
E-learning and mLearning, in particular, are popular among digital nomads for obvious reasons. These methods aren’t dependent on one’s location — they offer the freedom to set customized schedules.
Using Organizational Tools
Organization is the keyword when it comes to digital nomadism. It’s all too easy to get carried away and confuse the lifestyle with a long holiday (which it is not!).
There are numerous tools that can help digital nomads optimize their time and be more efficient and one of the most widely used ones is Google Tasks.
It helps with keeping track of performance, tasks, to-do lists and all other necessities.
To illustrate, Google Tasks offer a variety of tasks, including:
- Task creation, editing, and deletion
- Adding details to tasks
- Creating sub-tasks
- Creating multiple lists for one or more accounts
- Viewing your to-do list
- Adding emails as tasks through Gmail synchronization
- Receiving task notifications
- Setting due dates and times that synchronize with Google Calendar
Further out, there are certain apps that are frequently used by digital nomads and clients, so it is recommended to get familiar with them. There are also Gmail templates and the like.
Presently, in-demand tools include Adana, Trello, Zoom, email clients and various other instant messaging tools.
It is important to note that digital nomads simply have to remain competitive and being informed about the developments is a prerequisite.
Don’t Forget the Paperwork
Traveling abroad is exciting, to be sure, but when you’re planning to be away from home for a while, it’s all too easy to forget the boring aspect of it all.
One of the most troublesome necessities is — paperwork. While visa requirements are difficult to overlook for obvious reasons, other documents that may be called for later are too often forgotten.
The first tip is — keep copies of all important documents handy also some with a trusted friend or family member back home.
Secondly, make sure to double-check your passport validity, especially if you’re planning to travel to multiple countries on end. If your passport is valid for less than a year, renew it, just in case.
Conclusion
Everything considered, there are a number of universalities to be observed for digital nomads. On the other hand, much depends on the country of your choice, and your intended profession. The fun thing is that many nomads freelance for several clients, as well as have a side hustle or two, such as selling porcelain table lamps or having a craft-based online shop.
It is always recommended to familiarize yourself with the laws of the country you’re planning to stay in and to get in touch with the local expat community.
Choosing an apartment can also prove tricky, and it is generally recommended to not make advance payments. The best option is to stay at a hotel or a hostel and take your time choosing proper accommodations.
Overall, research is the single most important thing for digital nomads.
Be resourceful, open-minded and learn on the go!
