How to stay in touch with friends as a digital nomad?

Gone are the days when everyone conformed to conventional career choices because they were safe and stable. Today, the millennials want something that challenges us, excites us and gives us a sense of purpose. The flexible work schedules, the rise of freelancing jobs and startup ventures only bears testimony to this fact.

Traveling is not just about covering as many countries as possible. It is about accumulating experiences about making new memories and trying new things. There are a million things you need to plan out and organize. A budget trip to New York, for instance, is a meticulous affair. You have a time crunch. I get it; your schedule is stressful. But sometimes, you should take a break and enjoy the view.

Also, the boom in social media has further enhanced employment opportunities for youngsters. There is no shortage of opportunities and quirky career opportunities. Some people are earning a fortune traveling the world, writing blogs and living the best life out there. Jealous? Well, being a digital nomad is the stuff of dreams. You get paid to be on vacation!

The only downside to such a lifestyle is that you disconnect from your loved ones. It is very easy to get sucked in the virtual space and lose touch from reality. You have to separate your work life and relationship. The vagabond routine though impulsive has a structure to it that helps you balance your professional and personal commitments. Here are some useful tips to help you find that silver lining and hold on to it;

How to stay in touch with friends as a digital nomad?

Take Initiative

As someone who is forever bitten by the travel bug, I understand how addictive solitude can be. Your schedule and plans change every other minute. Plus, it gets tough to keep track of things. In such a scenario, your loved ones might feel ignored as you are living the best life out there. To bridge this gap, you need to take responsibility for your choices and take the initiative to reach out to people. Make an effort to get more involved in the lives of your friends and family. Ask them about their day, about the things they are doing and what’s new in their lives. Learn to listen, pay attention to the little things and celebrate it with them.

Time Management

Time is a limited resource, and we need to learn how to optimize our day the best we can. Everyone gets the same 24-hours. It is what we decide to do with those hours that makes all the difference. Some people choose to slog it away. Others live every minute to the fullest. As a digital nomad, you need to be extra careful with the time you have. Devote specific hours to work, to leisure and some to your family. Also, take care of your health, sleep cycle and diet. You can use apps that help you keep track of your day, set reminders and even create events.

How to stay in touch with friends as a digital nomad?

Tech-Savvy Connections

In this age of technology, it is easier than ever to connect with people and socialize. There are so many apps, platforms and software out there that help you reach out to people. Social media networks have brought the world closer than ever. Video calls, phone calls, What’s App messages, Instagram DM- there are so many ways to keep up with your loved ones.

Take out some time every day to give your family a call. Even a simple message might seem like a thoughtful gesture. Contrary to popular belief, technology can be an effectively connecting medium if only you use it smartly.

Hold on to the Little Things

Traveling is not just about covering as many countries as possible. It is about accumulating experiences about making new memories and trying new things. There are a million things you need to plan out and organize. I get it; your schedule is stressful. But sometimes, you should take a break and enjoy the view. Hustling gets a lot easier when you stop every once a while to smell the flowers. Hold on to the little things in life. The connections you make and the people you meet are what counts in the long run.

Living off a suitcase can get very overwhelming for your mental health. Interact with the locals of the area. Volunteer for community programs, explore the local sights, cultures, and cuisines of your country. It is essential to sit back and let your hair down every once a while.

How to stay in touch with friends as a digital nomad?

Be Informed

It is very easy to get disconnected from reality when you are living in the lap of nature. Read up about the social, political, economic and technological changes happening around you. Get regular updates on how your friends are faring. It might seem like you are the only one taking the first step every time. But trust me, it is so worth it. Don’t let your ego get in the way of relationships.

Plan Out Meetings

Nothing beats the bliss of actually meeting your friends and hanging out with them in real-time. You can have all the HD quality Skype calls and conversations you want. Nothing matches catching up with your near and dear ones over lunch or a cup of coffee. Go on a digital detox every once a while. Get off the internet, and focus on building actual relationships with people you care about. You can have millions of followers on social media, but not everyone would be there for you when things get tough.

Learn to Priorities

One of the biggest challenges that you will face as a digital nomad is to set a strict routine. Most times, we mix up our professional and personal spaces in a hotchpotch of disaster. Separate the two aspects of your life. Prioritize your relationships; they’re far more valuable than a few extra bonuses. Money may get you that brand new dress, but it doesn’t buy you respect and genuine love. Take breaks and spend some quality time with your loved ones. Travelling can get very monotonous if that is all you do. It is your friends and family that keep you grounded. You need a home to come back to, and home is where your heart lies.