The benefits of being a digital nomad in 2023

‘Digital nomad’ is a term many of us will have heard over the last few years. To be a digital nomad means you enjoy the incredible joy of traveling to experience more of the world, without quitting your day job. A digital nomad is someone who works remotely and lives in various locations around the globe. This sounds like a dream for a lot of us, right? Right! In addition to seeing more of the world, there are a number of other benefits to being a digital nomad in 2023.

First things first, what is a digital nomad?

While not everybody’s job allows the flexibility to work as a digital nomad, quite a few do!
Actually, more than a few. In 2023, it’s estimated that there are 35 million+ digital nomads working around the world. Whether you are self-employed or work for a company, you’ll often find digital nomads working in the e-commerce, web development and gig economy industries - anything that only requires a strong internet connection vs. needing to be in an office regularly. As the world has recovered after years of Covid-19 restrictions and lockdowns, we have seen digital nomads emerge as work and travel trends that are increasing in popularity in 2023, topping lists of travel trends for this year.

The digital nomad lifestyle is different from remote work, hybrid working and workcations because being a digital nomad involves long term travel. If you have the right work set up, the flexibility with regards to responsibility and dependencies, and an adventurous spirit, being a digital nomad is one of the most enriching things you can experience in life! Read on to find out more!

These are the top 5 benefits of being a digital nomad in 2023:

1. Productivity, Performance & Positivity

They say change is as good as a holiday right? Well, a change in scenery can leave you feeling refreshed and motivated! This in turn leads to improved productivity. Apply this to your work life and see a boost in productivity and performance. In the same vein, a monotonous daily life can lead to exhaustion and apathy which in turn reduces productivity and positivity. When you live the digital nomad lifestyle, the added excitement of travelling to new destinations can motivate you to be more productive because you’re in a space that brings positivity and joy.

Some people may worry that a lack of a regular work set up may reduce productivity due to distractions. However, one of the most important things when you’re a digital nomad is selfdiscipline. You need to be committed to putting in your necessary work hours following which you can switch off and set out to enjoy your new surroundings! Additionally, the prospect of getting out and exploring before or after your working day is a huge motivator.

Top travel tip: Being a digital nomad in a beautiful city like Cape Town, which is home to incredible outdoor areas, culinary destinations, wine farms and nightlife, will mean you’re never short on things to see or experience!

While digital nomad-ing, you’ll most likely feel invigorated with a new sense of purpose and energy. This newly-found energy can improve not only your performance at work but positivity in all facets of your day!

2. A Better Work-Life Balance - with Freedom & Flexibility

While it may feel counterproductive to work while travelling, digital nomading provides the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds! You get to focus during your work hours and fully embrace travel mode outside of those hours! Many of us can be tempted to check an email or complete a task outside of specified hours. However, with discipline in sticking to your working hours, and dedication to switching off outside of those hours, you can achieve an excellent work-life balance while being a digital nomad.

Additionally, the sense of freedom and flexibility that comes with being a digital nomad is priceless! You’ll get to enjoy the flexibility to travel and work in a dream destination while enjoying the freedom to explore and the freedom from the routine of everyday life. Bask in the benefits of feeling re-energised and inspired with much needed freedom and flexibility!

3. Optimise Your Working Hours

Deciding on your working hours and sticking to those timings is vital when working as a digital nomad. This self-discipline can help you work more efficiently as you work to ensure tasks are completed on time which then allows you to maximise enjoyment of your free time in your chosen destination!

4. Reduce Burnout & Daily Stress

Studies show that people with work routines that have a lack of balance (at a minimum) and, at worst, no breaks, can cause chronic stress. This can ultimately lead us to burnout. No one can operate at full capacity without periods of rest and rejuvenation. However, another problem is that many people may worry about falling behind on tasks or missing deadlines. That’s why being a digital nomad is a fantastic option for many people! You get to fit in your work hours while enjoying the benefits of travel, exploration and rejuvenation.

While being a digital nomad is different from a workcation. It still offers the opportunity to relax and unwind in a place that is separate from your usual routine. Day-to-day work routines can come with a significant amount of stress. Whether it’s the stress of a commute, office politics or finding time for household chores, these stressors can build up over time and wear down our energy and spirit. This makes getting away from everyday routine highly important! Take a break from the norm and visit a new and exciting place in 2023.

Cape Town is a great option for digital nomads because it’s budget-friendly and well connected, the weather is great almost year-round and the region is home to world-class hospitality, restaurants and travel destinations!

5. Personal Development

As a digital nomad, you’ll get to see more of the world, get to know other cultures, build on your life experiences and expand your horizons! It’s the ultimate way to boost your personal development. When we find ourselves in new and foreign places, we test our limits, push ourselves out of our comfort zones and ultimately grow as people.

It’s also a chance to meet new people; you could meet your new best friends or the love of your life! Additionally, the lifestyle offers the chance to pursue new hobbies and interests that you might not be able to in your current hometown. Think trying out new cuisines, learning new languages, enjoying adventure sports and experiencing new landscapes and outdoor activities - the possibilities are endless!

Are you ready to try out the digital nomad life? This is the year to make it happen! Why not make your digital nomad dreams a reality in an incredible city like Cape Town? You’re guaranteed to experience incredible natural sights, rich history, delicious culinary experiences and South Africa’s well-known warm hospitality!