As a writer and content creator, the idea of living as a digital nomad has always appealed to me. Having the freedom to work from anywhere in the world would be a dream come true.
“Hey, I could totally do my job remotely”, you might think. It sounds enticing, but the multitude of factors to consider might deter most aspiring digital nomads. Where do you even begin? Can one start off as a digital nomad without leaving the country? So many questions, so few answers.
If you are new to all this, your work-from-anywhere journey can always be embarked upon right here in Singapore. Here are four ways to get started.
1. Make the transition to remote work
Let’s not deny that the pandemic has accelerated the transition to a decentralised workforce, giving rise to plenty of remote work opportunities. From copywriters and social media managers to software developers and wealth banking executives, there are various fields digital nomads excel in.
If you are currently holding a position that doesn’t require you to work in a specific location, speak to your supervisors, and ask about the possibility of converting to remote work, indefinitely. If you are a freelancer, you can do remote work for other companies, or even become an entrepreneur. The number of options out there multiplies every year due to businesses downsizing and cutting costs.
Contrary to popular belief, simply working from home is not remote work. Location independence is key to living a nomadic lifestyle. And despite the initial scepticism you may have, do not quit your day job — it would be foolish of you to do so, unless you have a very solid backup plan. You should be able to come to a compromise with higher management. If you’re willing to take on a slightly different responsibility, or even a new official role, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your dream.
2. Establish multiple income streams
Will having both regular income and a side hustle propel you towards a fully nomadic lifestyle? Yes, but be prepared to put in a fair bit of time, effort, and energy. Having multiple income streams will certainly increase your earning potential and longevity as a digital nomad. For instance, you can do freelance work while running an e-commerce site or social media account. You could tutor and sell insurance at the same time.
Passive income streams are also popular amongst digital nomads, as they require little effort to maintain. This includes royalties from an eBook or piece of music, online courses that can be sold at a profit, and many more. In Singapore, many choose to earn passive income from investments like stocks, ETFs, property, or even crypto.
Of course, it is a must to do extensive research and plan ahead before making any major financial decisions. There is no one way to do it correctly, but having multiple streams of income will prepare you for future travels and your eventual retirement.
3. Join a community
Is it lonely being a digital nomad?
Not when you put yourself in the position to meet and connect with like-minded individuals. There are plenty of digital nomad communities around the world, let alone in Singapore. Facebook and Telegram groups are also good resources worth turning to — you’re guaranteed to find both locals and foreigners who are looking to make friends. And of course, the collaboration and networking opportunities offered by coworking spaces are second to none.
4. Find the right coworking space(s)
Working from cafes and libraries may be heavily romanticised on social media, but let’s face it, nothing beats the work environment, accessibility, and convenience of a dedicated coworking space. A good coworking space should not only offer ample amenities and hot desking facilities, but also have room for the growth of a vibrant community.
An ideal coworking space for digital nomads
If you’re looking for a coworking space, JustCo is the place for you. As Asia’s leading flexible workspace solution provider, they offer different workspace options ranging from hot desks to private offices and enterprise suites. For digital nomads, perhaps you might want to consider JustDesk Unlimited for a more flexible and casual workspace setup.
Exclusive perks at JustCo
JustCo members can enjoy the following:
- Usage of business address and mail handling
- 24/7 access to home centre
- Access to communal spaces at all local & international JustCo locations during business hours
- Pantry usage with complimentary refreshments at selected centres
- Provision of monitors for members at selected centres
- Reception support, daily housekeeping & utilities
- Exclusive member rates & perks
- Access to social events and networking sessions
Sounds too good to be true? We made a visit to JustCo’s first smart coworking centre in Singapore at The Centrepoint. Here’s what to expect.
Meeting rooms
Need to conduct a team meeting, workshop, or client session? Meeting rooms with high-speed internet and state-of-the-art technology are available for pay per use rental and can be easily booked using the JustCo mobile app.
Well-stocked pantry
No coworking space is complete without a well-stocked pantry. Be sure to help yourself to the complimentary refreshments (available at selected centres only).
Break-out spaces
Take a breather at one of the numerous break-out spaces. With plush seating and artfully decorated fixtures, you’re bound to feel right at home.
Hot desking spaces
JustDesk Unlimited members can park themselves at any of the workstations in the hot desking space, some of which are even equipped with personal monitors.
Personal nooks
All JustCo centres are equipped with cosy nooks for small group meetings, one-on-one discussions, and solo work sessions.
If you want to get lost in your own thoughts, head to this introvert-friendly seating area that’s reminiscent of a ramen joint.
Being able to work in a conducive space that’s private and photo-worthy — what’s not to like?
Phone booths
Got an important call or Zoom meeting? Keep things confidential at one of the soundproof phone booths.
Recreational facilities
As the saying goes, all work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Challenge your friend to a friendly game of basketball in one of the game rooms, or clock in a power nap in the napping room.
JustCo has 17 centres in the east, west and central Singapore. However, if you’re looking to work from a different country, know that you can. Signing up to JustCo means you have access to their other 23 and more centres across Asia Pacific. So technically, you have over 40 centres to work out of. Digital nomads, rejoice!
The hottest hot desk deal around
(Aspiring) digital nomads are in luck — get a 3 months hot desk membership free when you sign up for 6 months before 30 June 2022, subject to prevailing terms and conditions. Hot desking for less than S$7 a day? Sounds like a steal to me.
Your exciting future as a digital nomad starts .
This post was brought to you by JustCo.
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