I spent over a decade in NYC grinding away, chasing success and building my career. While my professional life was on an upward trajectory, my personal life was a different story. The weight of an unhappy relationship held me back, and I wasn’t truly fulfilled. After my divorce, if you’d told me I’d pack up my life, put everything in storage, and travel the world while working remotely, I probably would’ve laughed. But life has a funny way of steering us where we need to go. For me, that path led to becoming a digital nomad—a journey that’s been both thrilling and transformative.
Transitioning to life as a digital nomad hasn’t been without its challenges, but every step has been worth it. If you’re considering this lifestyle, here’s a guide to help you prepare, stay organized, and make the most of each destination.
1. Time Zones Matter—A Lot!
Working remotely while traveling means managing time zones. If your job requires client meetings or calls, your location can either make or break your schedule. Many digital nomads love Asia, but for U.S.-based hours, that might mean working through the night. I prefer European or South American time zones to keep my schedule manageable and my sleep intact.
2. Check Wi-Fi Quality and Local Amenities
Reliable Wi-Fi is the backbone of a digital nomad’s life. Don’t overlook this! Before committing to a location, especially a smaller or more remote area, ensure the internet connection can handle your workload. A sleepy beach town may sound dreamy, but it might not have the infrastructure you need. Look for places that cater to digital nomads with strong, stable Wi-Fi. Co-working spaces are also fantastic for networking and productivity.
3. Stay Organized—Or Else!
Balancing travel plans, work deadlines, accommodations, and personal time can be overwhelming. Staying organized is key. I use the Shift browser to streamline my workflow. Its dedicated workspace keeps everything—emails, apps, and extensions—in one place. It’s been a lifesaver for managing multiple projects and travel itineraries while staying productive.
4. Think About Safety
Safety is always a top priority. I gravitate toward locations with large expat communities—they often have more English speakers and a built-in network of people to connect with. When I’m alone, I want to feel like I can roam freely yet responsibly. I also do a virtual street view tour of the area before deciding where to stay.
5. Utilize Long-Term Stays for Better Deals
One of the best-kept secrets for digital nomads is the discounts available for longer stays on platforms like Airbnb. If you book for 28 days or more, many places offer significant discounts. This makes it cost-effective to settle in for a few weeks instead of constantly hopping around. It’s also helped me save money, establish a routine, and experience local life more fully.
6. Build Your Community
Traveling solo as a digital nomad can feel isolating, but it’s also an opportunity to build a global network. I prioritize connecting with expat groups, women’s travel communities, and local meet-ups. Meeting other digital nomads has been invaluable—they’ve become my support system, friends, and inspiration. Depending what city you are in, I recommend Girls Gone International and the Expat (location) groups on Facebook, which you can easily add as an app in your Shift workspace.
7. Take Breaks When You Need Them
Life on the road can be exhausting. While I thrive on new experiences, I sometimes need a home break—even if only for a week. Returning to a familiar place or just slowing down helps me reset and recharge. Sometimes I head back to the States; other times, I stay somewhere quiet to refresh and plan my next adventure.
8. Do Your Research on Visas and Residency Options
Visa regulations can be tricky but are crucial for long-term travel. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas with special tax benefits. I always research each destination’s rules about length of stay, residency requirements, and financial perks. Staying compliant with local laws gives me peace of mind and lets me focus on work and exploration.
9. Remember: Your Journey Is Yours
Every digital nomad’s journey is unique, so make this lifestyle your own. There’s no need to rush or follow anyone else’s timeline. Whether you take breaks, settle in one place for months, or continuously travel, the beauty of this lifestyle is its flexibility. Embrace it on your terms and adapt as you go.
Why I Chose This Path
So, why did I decide to become a digital nomad? In many ways, it was a pursuit of freedom, adventure, and personal growth. Living in one place had its comforts, but over time, I realized it wasn’t enough. I wanted to experience the world up close, connect with people from different cultures, and live each day with intention.
For me, being a digital nomad is about more than seeing beautiful places. It’s about challenging myself, breaking out of routines, and learning to adapt. Each new country brings new experiences, friends, and lessons. This journey has shown me what I’m capable of and helped me grow in ways I never imagined.
There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in taking control of my life, designing it the way I want, and embracing the unknown. This isn’t just about traveling—it’s about transformation. It’s about reconnecting with what truly matters: freedom, self-discovery, and building a life filled with purpose and adventure.
For now, I’m soaking in every moment and seeing where this path takes me. If you’re considering a similar leap, I hope you find the courage to take it. You never know how life will unfold, but that’s the beauty of this journey—each day is a new chapter, and the story is yours to write. Follow my journey and more @sheritajanielle!
