If you had told me a few years ago that I’d pack up my life, put everything in storage, and travel the world while working remotely, I probably would’ve laughed. But sometimes, life’s twists and turns lead us exactly where we need to go. For me, that path led to becoming a digital nomad—a journey that’s been both thrilling and transformative.

While scrolling on Instagram, I came across the opportunity to become Shift’s first-ever Chief Nomad Officer, and it instantly felt like the perfect fit. I brainstormed a video idea, put my editing skills to work, and, before I knew it, I was embarking on a new month-long journey, balancing work, life, and travel. This experience has allowed me to explore new places while staying productive, pushing me to grow in ways I never anticipated

Transitioning to life as a digital nomad hasn’t been without its challenges, but every step has been worth it. If you’re considering this lifestyle, here’s a guide to help you prepare, stay organized, and make the most of each destination.

1. Time Zones Matter—A Lot!

Working remotely while traveling means managing time zones. If your job requires you to meet clients or take calls, your location can either make or break your schedule. Many digital nomads love Asia, but for client-facing roles with North American -based hours, that might mean working through the night. I prefer staying in European or South American time zones to keep my schedule manageable and my sleep intact. Pro tip: I use the Savvy Time extension in Shift while traveling, which helps me keep my time zones on track while working.

2. Check Wi-Fi Quality and Local Amenities

Reliable Wi-Fi is the backbone of a digital nomad’s life. Don’t overlook this! Before committing to a location, especially if it’s a smaller or more remote area, make sure the internet connection can handle your workload. While a sleepy beach town may sound appealing, it might not have the infrastructure you need to work efficiently. Look for places that cater to digital nomads and have strong, stable Wi-Fi. I also recommend checking out co-working spaces, which can be great for networking and productivity.

3. Stay Organized—Or Else!

Being a digital nomad means balancing travel plans, work deadlines, accommodation logistics, and personal time. It can be a lot! That’s why staying organized is key to success. I use the Shift browser to keep me on track. Its dedicated workspaces feature has been a game-changer for me. Shift keeps everything streamlined, from emails to apps and extensions, which is a lifesaver when I’m juggling multiple projects and travel itineraries. Having a clear workflow is essential, especially when every day feels like a new adventure. 

4. Think About Safety

Safety is a top priority when choosing where to live and work. I gravitate towards locations with large expat communities, which often means more English speakers and a built-in network of people to connect with. This is especially helpful in places where I don’t speak the language fluently. Since I am solo, I want to feel like I can roam freely yet responsibly while traveling.  I use the Google Maps app in Shift and do a street view tour of the area before I decide what area I will be in.

5. Utilize Long-Term Stays for Better Deals

One of the best-kept secrets for digital nomads is the discount available for longer stays on platforms like Airbnb. If you book for 28 days or more, many places offer significant discounts, making it more cost-effective to settle in for a few weeks instead of constantly hopping around. This has helped me both save money and immerse myself more fully in each location. Plus, staying longer allows me to establish a routine and experience local life on a deeper level.

6. Build Your Community

Traveling solo as a digital nomad can feel isolating at times, but it’s also an opportunity to build a global network. I make it a priority to connect with expat groups, women’s travel communities, and local meet-ups wherever I go. Meeting other digital nomads and travelers has been invaluable—they’ve become my support system, friends, and a constant source of inspiration. It’s amazing to find like-minded people with similar stories, and it makes the journey that much richer. Depending what city you are in, I recommend Girls Gone International and the Expat (location) groups on Facebook, which you can easily add as an app in your Shift workspace.

7. Take Breaks When You Need Them

Life on the road can be exhausting. While I thrive on new experiences, I sometimes need a home break—even if only for a week. Returning to a familiar place or even just slowing down for a bit helps me reset and recharge. Sometimes I head back to the States, other times I stay somewhere comfortable and quiet, using the time to refresh, regroup, and plan my next destination.

8. Do Your Research on Visas and Residency Options

Visa regulations can be tricky, but they’re crucial for long-term travel. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas with special tax benefits, so I always research each destination’s rules on how long I can stay, requirements for residency, and any financial benefits. Staying compliant with local laws is vital—plus, it gives me peace of mind, allowing me to focus on work and exploration.

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9. Remember: Your Journey Is Yours

Every digital nomad’s journey is unique, so it’s important to make this lifestyle your own. There’s no need to rush or follow anyone else’s timeline. Whether you take breaks along the way, settle in a country for a few months, or continuously travel, the beauty of this lifestyle is in its flexibility. Embrace it on your terms, and don’t be afraid to adapt as you go.

Why I Chose This Path

So, why did I decide to become a digital nomad? In many ways, it was a pursuit of freedom, adventure, and personal growth. Living in a single place had its comforts, but over time, I realized it wasn’t enough. I wanted to experience the world up close, connect with people from different cultures, and embrace a lifestyle that allowed me to truly live every day with intention.

For me, being a digital nomad is about more than just seeing beautiful places. It’s about challenging myself, breaking out of routines, and learning to adapt. Each new country brings new experiences, new friends, and new lessons. It’s shown me what I’m capable of, helping me grow in ways I never imagined.

A deep sense of fulfillment comes from knowing I took control of my life, designed it the way I wanted, and embraced the unknown. This journey isn’t just about traveling; it’s about transformation. It’s allowed me to reconnect with what truly matters to me—freedom, self-discovery, and building a life filled with purpose and adventure.

For now, I’m on this path, soaking in every moment and seeing where it takes me. If you’re considering a similar leap, I hope you find the courage to take it. You never know how life will unfold, but that’s the beauty of this journey—each day is a new chapter, and the story is yours to write. Follow my journey and more @sheritajanielle.

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