Being a digital nomad is an exciting lifestyle as it is. All the people you meet, all the adventures you indulge in, and all the memories you create would never be forgotten. (https://www.nomadbuddy.life/nomadic-lifestyle-a-dream-lifestyle/) But working remotely in a totally new location can have a lonely effect on you.
Overcoming the fear
Are you scared of eating alone? Do you feel like you miss your family? Yes, you may feel lonely. You may feel bored. But traveling solo is not scary or complex.
The biggest hurdle is getting over the fear: the fear of the unknown; the fear of being alone; and the fear of being unsafe. This fear can hold you back. But once you have overcome this, you will be a happy free backpacker!
But how should you overcome the fear?
1. Start Talking
As soon as you step foot in a new location, DO NOT PANIC! Take a deep breath and start talking.
The only way to learn some of the local languages, learn about the traditions, where to eat, what is the price and where to stay is to communicate with those around you. Whether it be a tuk-tuk driver or a shop owner or a waiter at a café, start your conversations with them and clear your doubts.
It is okay to make some errors when speaking the local language. Yes, you will get a blank expression from the local or even a chuckle but don’t let it stop you.
Additionally beforehand, you can find the phrases for certain words like “Hello”, “Thank you”, and “Recommendation” through google. So that you can use them when you are traveling around the place.
2. Connect with Like-Minded Nomads
On the other hand, you can connect with like-minded people. Although it is adventurous to get to know people in the local area, it is also important that you have connections with people who get what you are doing.
Connecting with other digital nomads either through social media or in the community where you stay helps you feel like you belong.
3. Constant Help
Yes, you may have depression or anxiety due to stress and other external factors. So moving to different locations can be difficult when it comes to therapy.
There can be countries that lack this help. And when you do get a good therapist it may be difficult to get an appointment in.
In order to have therapy sessions when you need them, it is better to try online therapy sites like BetterHelp (https://www.betterhelp.com/).
4. Try Relaxation Techniques
There are various relaxation techniques that you could try to calm your mind. Are you stressed by the pile of tasks you have? Or are you feeling anxious when you arrive at a new destination? Just breathe….
Breathe In…….Breathe Out…….
Techniques such as meditation, systematic muscle relaxation, and deep breathing will help you in calming your mind and emotions. You can even try out yoga sessions in the local area.
5. Learn Constantly
Traveling to different destinations and experiencing the feel of culture and nature is awesome. But learning new facts and gaining knowledge on the way is invaluable. Always be ready to constantly learn and evolve as a digital nomad!
Reading this, you may still be unsure of becoming a solo digital nomad. But Im here to say that the biggest reward of being a digital nomad is A VERY FULFILLNG LIFE. You get to talk to new people, spend your leisure time doing new activities and most importantly make new memories. This would not be possible if you never left home, can you?
