The journey to becoming a digital nomad — or not

Fanni Bartanics
4 min readMar 9, 2023

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This new dream of being independent of location, time, and money has become a common dream in today’s society. The world is providing more and more opportunities to choose our own paths, but just because something seems dreamy, it doesn’t always deliver.

I decided to share some of the most common slaps in the face from nomads I interviewed over these years, but don’t worry, I will also share the great joy this lifestyle has allowed them to feel.

Most common slaps:

  1. Relationship struggles

It is already more and more challenging to find a partner for life as divorce rates show. Adding another layer of challenge by being on a constant move does seem to have a negative effect on those seeking long-term commitment. Even if people find someone who can follow them around, it puts another burden on the couple by not having friends of their own, not enough me-time, and spending too much time together.

Solution: I found couples who make it work by having 2–3 bases around the globe. They get to stay in one place long enough to develop friendships and since they return each year, these connections can be long-lasting allowing the couple to enjoy me-time without one another.

2. Not having long-lasting friendships

Introverts might have a little more struggle creating a social circle if they are often on the move, but it is not impossible. However digital nomads also tend to socialize among themselves, and few make the actual effort to keep in touch once they moved on.

Solution: Joining ex-pat groups is a step forward, as many ex-pats are residents of the chosen country. Volunteering, taking classes, and going to meetups are great ways to get to know the locals. Some even mentioned that they travel with their dog, which is an excellent way to start a conversation with other local dog owners.

3. Not enough options for semi-longterm stay

Almost all the nomads I talked to mentioned that the housing market is not ready yet for the increased number of people looking to stay 1–3–6 months in a country. They either find the expensive option of hotels or Airbnb or have to sign a year-long contract.

Solution: Join the ex-pat Facebook groups and ask for accommodation and advice there. They either offer property they rent out or advise you to join a better Facebook group suited for your needs. I myself found that the Girl Gone International group in each city offers a substantial amount of support regarding accommodation and other topics.

4. Not being able to keep pets

Even though it is possible to live this lifestyle while keeping pets, they do limit the options. Since I travel with my dog I often hear from nomads that they really miss having a furry friend. Not only because of the travel but also because of landlords.

Solution: Either adjust the lifestyle a bit so you don’t cover too much distance and your pet can travel with you, stay a little longer so maybe a year-long contract is possible, or find roommates with pets. Alternatively, you may offer to pet sit, walk dogs of ex-pats (and make some extra money), or volunteer at a shelter.

5. Not having real-life social interaction with colleagues

Many are relieved that they no longer need to be physically present at work, no need for small talk, no need to look at a dirty company fridge because no one bothered to clean it, but so often I hear that the lack of knowing colleagues, or going for a beer after work isn’t always easy.

Solution: Join coworking spaces, so you can enjoy the atmosphere of work without any pressure from the boss disagreeing with your tie.

Most common joy:

  1. Being able to see the world

Nomads no longer need to wait to retire in order to see the world properly. They get to fully experience culture and create a feeling of home by being able to stay for months at a time.

2. Being stimulated

Life doesn’t get dull because there is always something new to discover.

3. Excellent networking

By moving around the planet they get to grow an extensive and valuable social and business network.

4. Gaining perspective and cultural sensitivity

By being exposed to new languages, new cultures, new people, and new ways of thinking the mind evolves rapidly. Nomads not only gain valuable perspectives, but they tend to outgrow prejudice and racism based on the conversation I had with them. They are more accepting of differences and understand that there is not one way to be.

5. More productivity at work

Because they experience this freedom, autonomy, and work-life balance they no longer need to hate Mondays and wait for the sweet years of retirement. I found this particularly interesting when the profession does not limit freedom, suddenly there is more joy to be found at work.

In conclusion, this is a personal journey. Some see this as a phase during their early years, some see this as a life-long lifestyle. Some find it wonderful, some get tired of it. Some wanted it but found that it wasn’t for them. Some can’t have it any other way. Some found self-actualization by becoming a digital nomad, and some had new desires born because of it.

I love talking to so many of them and noticing the patterns. If you wish to share your story, I would love to read it in the comments.

Fanni Bartanics

Business Coach & Personal Development Coach

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