BALANCING ACT: NURTURING MENTAL HEALTH AS A DIGITAL NOMAD
Being a digital nomad comes with lots of benefits, but it can also take its toll on your mental health. Here are some habits and tips on how I nurture my mental health as a digital nomad or remote worker.
I have been a digital nomad for over 5 years now, and whilst I have enjoyed many perks like being able to see the world as I earn a living, there have also been tough times. Being away from friends and family can be tough, lacking the stability or a routine can be unsettling, and the classic wifi dilemma has often left me in states of panic - there is nothing worse than having a call with a client but being stuck someone with poor internet service! These have at times been something that I’ve been able to manage day to day, but there are also times where it has become too stressful and therefore had a negative affect on my mental health.
So, how have I overcome these? The following steps are habits I have learnt over the years that have really helped me to nuture my mental health as a digital nomad:
Routine:
Having some structure in daily life helps me to feel grounded and in control. Even when travelling where circumstances are constantly changing, you can keep some things in life consistent. Whether it be exercise, daily check ins with friends or family, or even supplement taking - create a flexible routine.
Connection:
The nomad life and the remote working life can get lonely, so make an effort to connect with friends, family, or fellow nomads. Put in time in your diary to touch base with people back home, or try to network with other digital nomads.
Work-Life Balance:
The whole reason I became a digital nomad was to find optimal work-life balance, but it can be easy to get swept up in the chaos and stresses of working for yourself. Set clear boundaries between work and play - your mind will thank you for the down time, trust me.
Switch Scenery:
Cafes and co-working spaces are a godsend as a digital nomad, because you not only meet other people this way, but it’s also refreshing to work from new places. A huge perk of being a digital nomad is that you can work from anywhere, you have no obligation to be at the same desk in the same office everyday, so use it to your advantage.
Healthy Habits:
Prioritize sleep, eat well, and move your body. A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Plus, trying local cuisines is one of the perks of being a nomad!
Emergency Stash of Comfort:
Have a digital or physical "comfort kit" – things that bring you comfort and familiarity.
And finally, make sure you stay present and embrace the moment. You worked hard for this lifestyle, so soak it all up and savour the now. The digital nomad can be fast-paced, so remember to slow down and enjoy every minute of it.
Do you have any tips for nurturing your mental health as a digital nomad or remote worker? I’d love to hear them! Comment below, and don’t forget to check out my Healthy Habits and 75 Soft challenge here.