What is a Digital Nomad?: Traveling and Working Around the World

Ever since the popularization of the internet back in the beginning of the 21st century, remote work has become a rising trend. Employees discovered the freedom of doing their jobs without the need to go to an office. The most adventurous ones took it a bit further and quit not only their 9-5 jobs but their whole lives as well. They became Digital Nomads.

A digital nomad is someone who has chosen to work remotely while they travel from one place to another, even around the world. Digital nomads have also found a way to earn money and support themselves thanks to the internet, its resources and possibilities.

Becoming a digital nomad might sound alluring and tempting, but it actually requires a lot of commitment, patience, hard work and resilience. Of course, embracing the digital nomad lifestyle can be very rewarding and inspiring too.

Usually, a digital nomad works in fields that rely on technology or use specific talents that don't force them to depend on a traditional office space. Jobs like web developer, digital marketer, graphic designer, video editor, translator or writer are common picks amongst digital nomads since they are easily solved with few tools and even limited space.

But having a professional background or experience in fields like these is not the only thing a digital nomad needs. It is also important to develop other abilities that will ensure a successful venture: great communication skills (that will allow them to find more clients and jobs, but are also helpful when traveling around) or being organized and self-motivated. Knowing how to manage your time is essential, and proactivity is a must.

Some might think that digital nomads are only Gen-Z or the younger millennials, but people from all backgrounds, ages or socioeconomic status have chosen this lifestyle and embraced it. A little less than 5 million people considered themselves digital nomads, according to a research conducted by MBO Partners in 2018. And the figures keep rising since then.

If you're interested in becoming a digital nomad, starting can be intimidating, but the most rewarding things in life are reserved for the bold. Those who have decided to pursue this path gained freedom and the opportunity to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience full of new places, new people and new challenges.

Have you ever considered becoming a digital nomad? Where would you like to go if you could become one? Share your thoughts with the Kosmic Dust community on social media and stay in the loop for more relevant content.