In recent years, there has been a lot of debate about the benefits and drawbacks of digital nomadism and remote work.

In the wake of widespread lockdowns and the rapid surge in remote work, the phenomenon of working from home has experienced exponential growth.

Lately, I've been inundated with a plethora of posts on this subject as if there’s an agenda to send me back to an office... is that you old boss?

I even read that these digital nomad lifestyles lead to loss of friendships, fitness, and productivity – well, cods wallop if you ask me. In fact, I'm proof that those things just aren't true.

I've dedicated a post on the fitness matter called Stay Fit and Healthy While Travelling.

In this post, I will explore the benefits of digital nomadism and remote work and provide a rebuttal to some of the most common criticisms.

a man sitting at the top of a building on the ledge with his laptop

Remote work can take you anywhere - avi-richards-unsplash

Remote Work Challenges & Considerations

Benefits of Digital Nomadism and Remote Work

Counterarguments to Misconceptions of Remote Work

Final Thoughts on Hybrid Work

Additional Reading Material: Popular and Successful Digital Nomads

Remote Work - Challenges and Considerations

There have been complaints about certain individuals struggling to maintain productivity outside of the office environment. While this may be valid for some, to me, it simply exposes those who wouldn't put in much effort regardless of their location.

Without the physical presence of an office, shortcomings tend to remain visible rather than concealed. In other words, it's easier to pretend to be productive when working in an office.

There's a saying that 20% of workers do 80% of the work, the Pareto principle.

So that would mean the other 80% do 20% of the work. Elon Musk even raised a similar question during a viral interview with the BBC, alluding to this concept.

‍More information and a link to the video can be found on cnn.com.

However, it's important to acknowledge that sometimes the blame lies with the bosses who fail to adapt.

Granted there are bosses (and employees) that do much better with face-to-face communication, which is a good thing but in this case perhaps a boss should be a little more adaptable and make more effort to stay in touch with their employees.

Understanding the implemented rules, their enforcement, the frequency of virtual meetings, and finding ways to quantify remote work productivity are essential for companies.

It seems easy to blame the remote worker.

Consider this: In a traditional work setting, a new trainee receives close supervision during their initial job days. However, in a remote setup, are they still getting the same level of support and guidance? Are their questions met in blunt, lost-in-translation messages by their supervisor/colleagues, or worse, simply ignored?

I know what you're thinking, this sounds like an argument AGAINST remote working and you'll be right to think that. There is an argument to be had in there for either side.

I guess being adaptable and having integrity are two characteristics that really matter here!

But if people are being lazy with the simplest of tasks when they are remote, whether that's a trainee a supervisor or a manager, then maybe they wouldn't be such a great employee anyway.

Small tech companies are happily still hiring remote workers while big tech have seemed to have done a U-turn, according to this post by Vox.com.

Working hard or hardly working?

Is it easier to work from home?

It seems some of us are taking it for granted because we have it too easy now!

Have remote workers, reached a stage where even without the need to get out of bed to work, still managing to find reasons to complain?

Well not all of us, I assure you.

If you work as a freelancer you are creating your own working environment, within your own hours. But without self-discipline, you wouldn't get very far. And there's no boss to blame for your shortcomings. If it was that easy everyone would do it.

Introverts vs extroverts.

Certain arguments I've come across regarding the decline of remote work often overlook the contrasting needs of introverts and extroverts.

For some people, the thought of going to a full office, having to mingle and small talk and force conversations, is enough anxiety provoking and dread to keep you in bed all day... under the covers. For others, it's a great source of expressing oneself and a chance to showcase their best creative side.

I am on the introvert bandwagon, so when lockdown happened I couldn’t have been more content, except of course, for the fact the gyms were closed!

Since then, the wave of 'working from home' or being a remote worker, even a digital nomad, has been the perfect solution to my life. I am not alone in this.

If you hold a job that allows remote work and you're an introvert relishing the comfort of your home, does that suggest there are no hurdles to overcome?

Of course not. I am merely stating that SOME people are able to make those choices work and others not so much. Those others may be the people advocating against remote work.

Plus, it doesn’t have to last forever right? It's your life and you can choose to re-create your path at any moment!

Anyway, enough ranting, lets have a look at why you SHOULD be a remote worker...

a remote workers essentials for getting things done and being productive — Getting things done - anete-lusina-unsplash

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Benefits of Digital Nomadism and Remote Work

Work-Life Balance:

One of the most significant benefits of digital nomadism and remote work is the ability to achieve a better work-life balance.

By eliminating the need for a daily commute and allowing employees to work from anywhere, these lifestyles give workers more time to spend with their families, pursue hobbies, and take care of their mental and physical health.

Again, this all comes with being disciplined.

I will admit that it can be tempted to lounge around but you won't be helping anyone including yourself if you do that. Plus being productive breeds more productivity.

I found a great post on helpful tips on how to be more disciplined at work which may help if you are struggling with this. You can check it out here.

Increased Productivity:

Contrary to popular belief, digital nomads and remote workers are often more productive than their office-bound counterparts. Without the distractions of a traditional office environment, workers can focus on their tasks and complete them more efficiently.

A post by Forbes highlights some important statistics.

Is anyone else starting to feel like the pushback to this lifestyle comes only from bosses?

Access to a Global Talent Pool:

The employers that do embrace digital nomadism and remote work have access to a global talent pool. This means that they can hire the best and brightest workers from around the world, regardless of their location.

The same goes for employees who have mastered their trade. Once you have a strong portfolio and an in-demand skill set you will have your choice in where to work and who with.

Cost Savings:

Digital nomadism and remote work can also lead to significant cost savings for both employees and employers. Without the need for a physical office, companies can save on rent, utilities, and other expenses. Meanwhile, employees can save on transportation costs and other expenses associated with working in an office.

Recent news of HSBC downscaling due to hybrid working is proof of this trend. Good for them.

Counter Arguments to Misconceptions of Remote Work

There have been some arguments for why it's a terrible idea to become a remote worker.

It's ironic that I have seen some of these arguments coming from people who have been or still are remote workers. What’s the agenda?

I'll leave you to decipher that. Just know next time you come across a post like that ask yourself some questions.

I am not saying there is no truth in the points made but it's written in a doomsday-end-of-the-world way, when there's really no need.

So here are some counterarguments to some of the points I've heard and what I think about them.

two remote workers sitting in a field. their silhoutte can be seen only. they are sitting on chairs in a field with a tree with a beautiful clear sky. — Friendships - Harli-marten-unsplash

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Loss of Friendship Due to Travelling

Guess what I did today? Picked up the phone and FaceTimed my friend. Yep, picture that. I can be in another country and still speak to a friend from abroad. What a world!

You get my point.

This goes back to the whole – some people are just lazy.

Again, I am not saying I don't slip up from time to time and forget to call someone back but if you lost touch with friends due to travelling because you or they cannot be bothered to shoot you a text from time to time then you may be better off without them (or them you).

A caveat here would be that some people are more than happy to go months, even years without speaking to their friends and then meet up and act like not even a day has gone by.

So yes, while it is true that digital nomads travel frequently, it does not necessarily mean that they lose friendships.

In fact, many digital nomads report that they have formed strong bonds with other travellers and locals they meet on their journeys.

Loss of Fitness and Health

Another common criticism of digital nomadism and remote work is that it leads to a loss of fitness and health. However, this is not necessarily true.

‍Digital nomads and remote workers can stay healthy by taking advantage of local gyms, parks, and other fitness facilities.

Additionally, they can prepare healthy meals at home and avoid the unhealthy snacks and meals often found in office environments.

This concept forms the foundation of my entire blog.

Working Hard and NOT Just Hardly Working

Some critics argue that digital nomads and remote workers are not working as hard as their office-bound counterparts.

This is simply not true.

‍Digital nomads and remote workers often work longer hours than traditional office workers, as they have more flexibility in their schedules and can work during their most productive hours. Only, they do it with more of a smile on their face.

Final Thoughts on Hybrid Work

Digital nomadism and remote work offer numerous benefits to both employees and employers.

While there are some valid criticisms of these lifestyles, many of these criticisms are based on misconceptions and stereotypes. By embracing digital nomadism and remote work, companies can attract top talent from around the world and give their employees the flexibility and work-life balance they need to thrive.

Embarking on this lifestyle is no walk in the park, and bidding it farewell is equally challenging. However, for individuals like myself and countless others, embracing it became an irresistible calling that we couldn't resist.

Additional Reading Material:

Here are some famous and successful digital nomads, check them out and see what you can learn if you are interested in becoming a digital nomad.

Benny Lewis: Benny is a digital nomad who has built a successful career as a language teacher and blogger. He has travelled to over 50 countries while teaching people how to learn new languages quickly and effectively. Check out his site here.

Kristin Addis: Kristin is a digital nomad who has built a successful career as a travel blogger and writer. She has travelled to over 50 countries and has written for publications such as Forbes, The Huffington Post, and Lonely Planet. Here is the link to her site - bemytravelmuse.com.

Tim Ferriss: Tim is a digital nomad who has built a successful career as an author, entrepreneur, and podcast host. He is the author of several best-selling books, including "The 4-Hour Workweek," and has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Check out his blog site here https://tim.blog/.

Natalie Sisson: Natalie is a digital nomad who has built a successful career as a business coach and author. She has travelled to over 70 countries and has written several books, including "The Suitcase Entrepreneur.” Check her out site here https://suitcaseentrepreneur.com/.

After checking these guys out you may come to realise that maybe embarking on such a journey may not be such a bad idea after all.

If you wish to connect with a fellow nomad and someone who loves adventures and exploration then feel free to reach out.

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The Gymsy Traveller

Exploring the Hybrid Work Revolution: Countering Misconceptions and Revealing the Truth (For Digital Nomads and Remote Work)