As digital nomads, millennials have embraced technology, remote work, and a more flexible work-life balance. This exploration offers insights into their diverse career paths, from freelancing and entrepreneurship to remote work and the gig economy. It also examines their passion for travel, social consciousness, and pursuit of meaningful experiences in both their professional and personal lives. Understanding how millennials work and live provides valuable insights into the shifting landscape of the modern workforce and their impact on society at large.
Who are Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is a fancy term for young people. Dr. Poornima Gupta defines digital nomads as a “growing breed of entrepreneurs who embody the success and freedom that an Internet Lifestyle can provide.” She also says, “More and more millennials are moving to this lifestyle. They have the money to spend that they earn through various income streams – blogging, training, e-products, internet e-commerce, webinars, etc. They have a passion to travel and enjoy new things in life.”
“Passion to travel” is an important aspect of this definition. Millennials believe in the power of having it all. They need to prepare to settle, change, or compromise. This is why digital nomad lifestyles have grown rapidly in recent years. A digital nomadic lifestyle allows individuals to pursue their professional and personal goals without hassle.
Millennials should know a few points when contemplating a digital nomad lifestyle.
Some Real-life Testimonials
White-collar jobs and fancy aluminum buildings are no more. Nowadays, people work according to their schedules rather than being the wolves on Wall Street. Tom Wilke, CEO of Cardboard Nerds, says, “Internet penetration empowers people like me to take this plunge and become a digital nomad rather than spending my career behind the cubical office. I have been traveling to many regions where I meet many new people and millions of memories left behind; remote working is a win-win for all working professionals.”
“Win-win” is a lofty statement. “They have the freedom to work and operate from anywhere, and this not only gives them creative liberty but also helps them to grow and meet new people, which further helps them to excel in their profession.”
Your Path to Choose
John Webster, the owner of Pcbitalian, says that the advancements in technology and the availability of co-working workplaces, in conjunction with companies offering flexible and temporary work, have made it feasible for millennials to work in any location. She states, “This has led to the “gig economy,” which has allowed people to be “digital Nomads” as well as “freelancers.” Although both kinds of work involve remote work, the nomadic existence that is constantly traveling distinguishes a digital nomad from a freelancer.”
She adds that a crucial aspect to consider before transitioning to a digital nomadic lifestyle is whether one would like to be an employee from home, run an organization, or travel and work. “Either way, you should sign up to websites for remote workers. One must possess the right skills – especially niche skills, but also need the stability of selling them. A digital nomad should ensure that all relevant documentation – passports and visas are kept up to date.”
Technology to Your Aid
Digital nomads are only complete with technology. Dhanvin Sriram, Owner of Prompt Vibes, says, “Use technology to your advantage and get the right tools. For instance, you’ll need a VPN for data security, cloud data backup for all your work, a WiFi extender, and collaboration apps to work with clients across geographies.”
Everyone today is trying out technology and ensuring it is an element of their overall ecosystem.
Identifying Opportunities
Opportunities open up that digital nomadic travelers can take advantage of. This is why identifying them is the starting point for each digital nomad. The Owner of Favoured validly states, “Being a digital nomad requires a fair amount of relearning with the community. Picking the right space to start your journey as a digital nomad becomes all the more important considering the space you pick is your new comfort zone.” He further suggests you maximize the network and resources available while planning your journey. “Pick a place that has day passes available. Attend events hosted by a new space to understand the community and what is available. Open yourself to the experience and personality each new place offers.”
