Being a digital nomad is essentially working as a mobile entrepreneur. A digital nomad lives and works in different places around the globe, combining travel with work. This lifestyle allows people to visit new places while making a living. However, not many people talk about the downsides of being a digital nomad. It can be tiring and has some issues like burnout, feeling lonely, and financial problems.
As a digital nomad, it’s easy to work too long without a break because work and free time often mix. The key is to set yourself up so burnout is less likely to occur. In this article, we will cover several ways to avoid burnout when you live as a digital nomad.
1 – Stay longer in one location
One effective way to prevent burnout as a digital nomad is by moving locations less frequently. Instead of hopping from place to place every few weeks, consider staying in short-term rentals for a few months before moving on.
Staying a bit longer in one location gives you the chance to rest better because you’re not always packing and unpacking. As a bonus, you can even save money with longer rentals, as many places offer discounts for extended stays.
For example, you might search for monthly rentals in the city of Toronto. This allows you to enjoy the city’s diverse neighborhoods and vibrant culture without the rush. You can find a comfortable spot to work, frequent local cafes, and maybe even make some friends. This slower pace of travel can improve your work efficiency and overall health.
2 – Have structured work hours
One of the biggest challenges for digital nomads is the temptation to overwork because their office is wherever they are. When you can work from any location at any time, it’s easy to fall into the trap of extending work hours well beyond what is healthy or productive.
To guard against this, establish a routine and set specific work hours. Decide what your workday will look like and stick to it as much as possible. This way you can separate your work life from your personal life, even when they occupy the same space. For example, you might decide to work from 9 AM to 5 PM, mimicking a traditional work environment.
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3 – Stay physically active
Moving around a lot can make it hard to keep regular habits for exercise which can lead to burnout. When living a sedentary lifestyle, getting enough exercise is hard to come by. Regular physical activity not only keeps the body healthy but also significantly boosts mental well-being.
It’s important to keep up with exercise. This not only keeps you fit but also helps with mental sharpness and handling stress. You can join local gyms, take classes, or even do simple workouts in their rooms. Going for runs in nearby parks is another good option. Many cities offer bike-sharing programs, which are both eco-friendly and convenient for getting around and staying active.
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