It has always been my dream to travel the world, explore new places and cultures, and experience life from different perspectives. I remember the adrenaline rush when I first discovered the digital nomad lifestyle. Without a doubt, I knew that this was the path for me as it promised to fulfill my travel dream while also allowing me to earn a living remotely.
What is Remote Work?
Remote work is a relatively new concept that has gained traction over the past few years, and it has become even more popular in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is a new way of life that prioritises novel experiences over comfort and security, allowing individuals to work from anywhere in the world as long as there is a reliable internet connection.
The benefits of remote work are numerous. I remember researching extensively on the options available, the skills required, as well as the pros and cons. By God’s grace, my efforts paid off and I successfully landed a remote work position earlier this year (read more here). Two months in, I realised that while remote working comes with many perks, it is not a bed of roses and here is why:
Pros of Remote Working
Flexibility
Remote work allows for greater flexibility over when, where and how one chooses to work. I am way more productive when remote working because there are pockets of time for me to rest and recharge throughout my day. The time saved from travelling to work is better utilised. Work is also a lot more enjoyable as I can work from anywhere. My mental and physical health have seen a marked improvement.
Autonomy
Built on the foundation of trust, remote work bestows autonomy. Managers trust team members to perform their duties even if they are a globe away. Similarly, team members trust one another to do their part. In my previous job, I have had bad experiences with micro managers who monitored my last-seen time stamp religiously. On the contrary, my current manager gives me 100% trust from the get-go, which propels me to do my best at work.
Intercultural Exposure
Most remote work require interactions with overseas stakeholders. I work closely with my team in the Asia Pacific and Japan and serve customers in the Oceania. The exposure to foreign cultures enhances my professional and personal development as I gain more confidence in navigating the cultural differences and nuances. It also builds my interpersonal and communication skills, and moulds me into a well-informed global citizen.
Cons of Remote Working
Onboarding
The onboarding process for remote work may be challenging without a mentor or team member physically present to guide the new joiner. The lack of in-person interactions may also impair relationship building within the team. If you are someone who prefers hand-holding, then remote work is probably not for you. In my case, I was onboarded right before a global conference, where I got to meet all my colleagues in person. I have to add that it is helpful to be able to put a face to the name.
Safety and Security
Remote work allows one to travel and explore new places while maintaining work commitments. However, this can also be a challenge. Travelling while working requires careful planning and coordination. Some considerations include the availability of a reliable internet connection and the time zone differences when communicating with team members and other stakeholders. As with all travels, there are also risks involved if you plan to travel while remote working. I paid for an exorbitant insurance plan when I was freelancing and travelling Canada last year. It is a pity that I only learnt of SafetyWing after the trip.
SafetyWing is a travel medical insurance that was created by nomads for nomads. The insurance offers great flexibility and you can even purchase a policy after your trip has started. There is coverage in 185 countries and no itinerary is needed in advance. It is perfect for remote workers who go on spontaneous travels. If you plan to go on long-term travels, be sure to check out SafetyWing.
Does it Pay to be a Digital Nomad?
Remote work is a growing trend, and it offers many benefits for both employees and employers. As technology continues to evolve and the world becomes more interconnected, remote work will likely become more prevalent in the future.
Personally, I think that one of the most important aspects of remote work is finding the right job or company. Not all companies are suited to remote work, and not all remote work is created equal. It is important to do your research and find a company that aligns with your values and offers the support and resources you need to succeed as a remote worker.
I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience the digital nomad lifestyle. While it can be challenging at times, I wouldn’t trade this lifestyle for anything. Remote work has given me the freedom and flexibility to design my life and pursue my dreams. If you are considering remote work, I hope this article inspires you to take the leap of faith and explore all the possibilities that remote work has to offer. Feel free to reach out for recommendations or tips on how to get started.
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