The Freedom Office

Working remotely is not always easy. It can be as tough as being 9-5 in the office. There can often be technical issues such as needing an adapter to use the power sockets, there may be poor Wi-Fi, or maybe the co-working facilities are just generally sub-par. Oftentimes though, the challenges are far beyond technical. You may feel confused, or unsure if your work is good enough. Do they think you are slacking? Are they judging your work because they can’t see you working in person? How can you deliver your message to that person that clearly lacks communication skills? Is it your imagination or does your boss's communication seem a little passive aggressive? Or, are you the one not communicating as well as you should? These are very realistic and honest thoughts. It’s normal for them to cross your mind. Thriving while working remotely requires the same dedication as earning the title of employee of the month in an office setting. Ultimately, you're accountable for your outcomes, and deep down, you recognize whether you're performing at your best or falling short. You are also responsible when you need better instructions, deliverables, more clarity or information on a project. Connect with star players in their industries, join remote work communities and see how others do it. Inspiration is important, along with self-care. Communicate your needs, look out and check in on your remote work friends and colleagues. It can be a lonely road but an opportunity for true connection at the same time. But how can you really stay connected? Stay connected, but also disconnect - the oxymoron. Many find solace behind the screen, which is why this lifestyle can appeal to those who disdain the office or relish solitude. Regardless of your preference, it's important to seek a balance between screen time and real-life interactions. Living through a screen can seem simpler, offering comfort through observing the world in this way. But I want you to look at yourself as a creator. You are not here just to consume. You are here to create and design your new reality. The Power of Online Communities Picture this: you've just landed in a new city, your backpack brimming not just with essentials but with hopes and perhaps a whisper of uncertainty. Where do you begin? How do you find your tribe in this new maze of streets and faces? That's where the magic of online communities comes in, a beacon for nomads like us seeking connection, guidance, and a slice of familiarity in unfamiliar territories. Bonding over Shared Passions Now, let's talk about hobbies. Imagine combining your love for, say, photography, with the thrill of exploring a new city. Platforms like Meetup have been my go-to for finding soul mates who share my interests. It's not just about indulging in your passions, but about the stories you'll share, the sunsets you'll capture together, and the collective joy of doing what you love. It transforms a hobby into a bridge, connecting you with others who share your zeal. Crafting Your Circle Sometimes, the perfect group doesn’t exist yet. That's your cue to create it. Starting a WhatsApp group for fellow yoga enthusiasts or a Telegram group for freelancers can spark connections that light up your nomadic life. It's about creating a space where shared interests pave the way for shared experiences and, ultimately, shared growth. The Beauty of Digital Roots Engaging with these online communities does something magical: it plants digital roots in a lifestyle often seen as fleeting. These connections and these conversations, they begin online but blossom into real-world encounters, collaborations, and memories. It’s about intertwining the digital with the tangible, weaving a net of support that holds us as we leap from one adventure to the next. So, dear nomads, as we chart our courses through this vast, beautiful world, let’s remember the power of connection lies right at our fingertips. It’s in the groups we join, the meetups we attend, and the communities we build. In this journey of constant movement, our anchors are the bonds we forge along the way. Let’s dive into the heart of these online communities, not just as travelers, but as members of a global village, ever-expanding, ever-welcoming. Follow what’s best for you and you’ll attract the right people. For example, as part of maintaining a healthy mindset and physique while I travel, I search for local gyms and facilities. In September 2023, I embarked on a journey through Asia, beginning in India and continuing through Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. My travels culminated in Dubai, where I hosted numerous retreat experiences and coaching workshops. I had the amazing opportunity to reconnect with some nomad friends who also happened to be entrepreneurs. Back in December 2021, I met Jeff in Tulum just before the New Year’s. We were staying in the same Selina Tulum dorm. By the way, sharing accommodation concepts is a great way to meet people. Back to the story, I met Jeff in Tulum. We crossed paths again in Brazil the following month where we traveled together with more nomad friends. It’s actually very easy to meet up again with people who are sharing a similar life to yourself. This year, after we crossed paths again, we set out to complete a beautiful digital-nomad trip in Spain visiting places like Toledo, Madrid and Barcelona. Fast forward and I found out that Jeff has been establishing an entrepreneurial base in Lombok Island, Indonesia; an awesome place for a traveler or digital nomad. I flew from Malaysia to meet him and some other friends in Indonesia where we explored Nusa Lembongan. After traveling to Lombok to check out this new spot, I immersed myself in the local community and I made friends in the local gym. That’s the way to connect. Hang out in places that you like.